How to Make Honey Garlic Sauce
Honey garlic sauce blends sweet, savory, and tangy flavors into a rich, glossy glaze perfect for everything from wings to stir-fries. This homemade version is quick, flavorful, and pantry-friendly.
Crafted with just a few staple ingredients, this sauce delivers deep umami and a smooth texture in under 15 minutes. Its balance of garlic and honey makes it incredibly versatile.
Star Ingredients in This Honey Garlic Sauce Recipe
Garlic – Adds pungent depth and aromatic intensity, softening into the oil for a flavorful foundation.
Ketchup – Offers body and tang with a subtle sweetness, anchoring the sauce’s texture.
Honey – The primary sweetener, it gives the sauce its signature smooth, sticky glaze.
Soy Sauce – Delivers saltiness and umami, rounding out the sweetness of the honey.
Canola Oil – A neutral base that helps bloom the garlic’s flavor without overpowering it.
Steps to Make This Flavorful Honey Garlic Sauce
Start by sautéing minced garlic in canola oil until translucent and aromatic. Stir in ketchup, honey, and soy sauce, then bring the mixture to a boil. Let it simmer gently until the flavors meld and the sauce thickens slightly.
Honey Garlic Sauce Tips for Flavor and Versatility
To deepen the sauce’s complexity, consider adding a splash of rice vinegar or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. For a thicker glaze, let the sauce simmer a few extra minutes, or mix in a cornstarch slurry. This sauce pairs well with chicken, tofu, vegetables, and even grilled shrimp.
Storing Your Homemade Honey Garlic Sauce
Store the cooled sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze in small batches and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until smooth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, honey garlic sauce stores well in the fridge and often tastes even better after a day as the flavors meld.
Is there a substitute for ketchup?
You can use tomato paste thinned with a little vinegar and sugar, though it will slightly alter the flavor and texture.
How can I thicken the sauce?
Simmer longer to reduce or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water) during the final minutes of cooking.
Can I use olive oil instead of canola oil?
Yes, but use a light olive oil to avoid altering the sauce’s neutral base flavor.
Honey Garlic Sauce
Ingredients
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- ½ cup honey
- 3 cloves garlic finely minced
- ¾ cup ketchup
Instructions
- Warm the canola oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Introduce the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes translucent, approximately 3 to 4 minutes.
- Incorporate the ketchup, honey, and soy sauce, stirring to blend. Allow the mixture to come to a boil.
- Lower the heat and continue to simmer, stirring intermittently, until the sauce is well-infused and cohesive, about 5 minutes.
