
Hey, Welcome to the Sweet Soy Five Spice Sauce Recipe. Sweet Soy Five Spice Sauce is a rich, flavorful Asian-inspired sauce that balances sweetness, savoriness, and warm spices.
If you’ve ever had this drizzled over roasted meats, stir-fry, or noodles, you already know how comforting and bold its flavor can be.
I wanted to recreate that at home, and guess what? I nailed it! Today, I’m sharing the easiest way to make this flavorful recipe right in your kitchen.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 1 ½ cups
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Category: Sauce
History and Origin
Sweet soy sauce has deep roots in Chinese and Southeast Asian cooking, particularly in Indonesian and Malaysian cuisines.
The addition of Chinese Five Spice creates a fusion twist, combining traditional soy-based sauces with aromatic spices, making it perfect for American kitchens.
What does Sweet Soy Five Spice Sauce taste like?
This sauce has a bold and unique flavor profile. It is sweet, savory, slightly tangy, and deeply aromatic.
The soy gives umami depth, while the five spice adds warmth and complexity that pairs beautifully with roasted or stir-fried dishes.
By the way, you can also try the Orange Tea Shot Recipe.
Ingredients
You will need the following ingredients to start making the Best Sweet Soy Five Spice Sauce Recipe:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Soy sauce | ½ cup |
| Dark soy sauce | ¼ cup |
| Brown sugar | ½ cup |
| Rice vinegar | 2 tablespoons |
| Chinese five spice | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Fresh ginger (grated) | 1 tablespoon |
| Water | ½ cup |
| Cornstarch slurry | 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water |
Equipment Needed
Also, gather the following equipment, as they are necessary to craft your Easy Sweet Soy Five Spice Sauce Recipe:
- Small saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Heatproof bowl or jar for storage
How to Make Sweet Soy Five Spice Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the base
In a saucepan, combine soy sauce, dark soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Stir well.
Step 2: Add spices
Sprinkle in the Chinese five-spice powder. Mix to evenly distribute the flavors.
Step 3: Simmer the sauce
Add water and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally for 10 minutes.
Step 4: Thicken the sauce
Slowly whisk in the cornstarch slurry. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
Step 5: Cool and store
Remove from heat. Let it cool slightly, then transfer to a jar. Keep in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.
Recipe Card

Sweet Soy Five Spice Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a saucepan, combine soy sauce, dark soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Stir well.

- Sprinkle in the Chinese five-spice powder. Mix to evenly distribute the flavors.

- Add water and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally for 10 minutes.

- Slowly whisk in the cornstarch slurry. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.

- Remove from heat. Let it cool slightly, then transfer to a jar. Keep in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.

Notes
Nutritional Information
Below, I have listed the nutritional information for the Sweet Soy Five Spice Sauce Recipe:
| Nutrient | Amount (per 2 tbsp) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 60 |
| Carbohydrates | 13 g |
| Protein | 1 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Sodium | 580 mg |
| Sugar | 11 g |
Serving Suggestions
This Sweet Soy Five Spice Sauce pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted pork, stir-fried vegetables, or even as a dipping sauce for dumplings.
You can drizzle it over noodles, rice bowls, or use it as a glaze for baked meats.
Storage Tips
You can store this sauce in an airtight glass jar in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Make sure it is completely cooled before storing.
Stir or shake before using again, as it may thicken slightly when chilled.
Tips for Perfect Sweet Soy Five Spice Sauce
To make your sauce extra glossy and flavorful, always cook it slowly over medium heat. Avoid boiling too hard, as that can burn the sugar.
Taste and adjust the balance of sweetness, saltiness, and spice as needed.
Variations You Can Try
You can customize this sauce by adding orange zest for freshness, honey for extra sweetness, or sesame oil for nuttiness.
For a spicy kick, try adding chili flakes or crushed pepper. Each variation gives a new dimension of flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t skip stirring the sauce while it simmers, or it may stick and burn. Avoid adding too much cornstarch, as it can make the texture too thick.
Always let it cool before storing to maintain its shine.
Health Benefits of Sweet Soy Five Spice Sauce
Sweet Soy Five Spice Sauce Recipe contains ginger and garlic, both known for their anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
The five spice blend also promotes digestion and adds warmth. When used in moderation, it’s a healthier flavor enhancer compared to heavy cream sauces.
How to Use It in Daily Meals
You can drizzle this sauce over steamed rice, toss it in noodles, or use it to marinate meats.
It instantly upgrades simple dishes with complex flavors, making your meals taste restaurant-quality with minimal effort.
Pairing Ideas for Best Flavor
Sweet Soy Five Spice Sauce Recipe pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, duck, grilled tofu, and shrimp.
It also enhances vegetables like broccoli or bok choy. For a fusion twist, try it with burgers or grilled pineapple. The balance is always amazing.
How to Adjust Flavor Balance
If your sauce tastes too salty, add a splash of water or more sugar. For a sweeter tone, increase brown sugar slightly.
To highlight the spice, sprinkle in a bit more five-spice or fresh ginger juice.
Conclusion
This Sweet Soy Five Spice Sauce Recipe is quick, versatile, and packed with bold flavors that elevate everyday meals into something special. You’ll love making it at home.
With these words, we came to the end of this article. If you like this recipe, then please rate this post with 5 stars at the end of the FAQs section, and don’t forget to share it with your loved ones!
Happy Cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use regular soy sauce only?
Yes, but dark soy sauce adds richness and depth. Using both creates the best balance.
Can I make this sauce gluten-free?
Yes, substitute soy sauce with tamari or gluten-free soy sauce alternatives.
How do I make it spicier?
You can add chili flakes, fresh chili, or a dash of sriracha to increase the heat.
Can I freeze this sauce?
Yes, you can freeze it in small containers for up to 2 months. Thaw before using.
What dishes go best with this sauce?
It works great with stir-fry, grilled meats, noodles, dumplings, or as a glaze.
You will also like the Issou Spice Recipe.
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