The shelf life of sweet and sour sauce depends on the ingredients that it contains. You might be concerned a bit because you see these sauces placed on the table all the time in restaurants that you visit. In most cases, the shelf life of sweet and sour sauce is up to one year because it contains vinegar. However, too much vinegar content can also make the sauce feel a lot moldier. If you have refrigerated your sweet and sour sauce in an adequately covered air-tight container, then it will preserve the flavor for a reasonable amount of time.
Purchasing Sweet & Sour Sauce
You have to check the ‘best before’ date when you buy your favorite brand’s sweet and sour sauce. Also, make sure that the container is sealed correctly and it is not opened or leaking from any side. You must also check the ingredients and avoid buying sauces that contain too much artificial flavoring and preservatives. These sauces will not give you the taste that you want in your food and such foods are also not good for your health. Always ensure that you buy organic sauces and other foods, as they don’t have the right preservatives in them.
Storing Sweet & Sour Sauce
If you are looking to store your sweet and sour sauce, then keep in mind that you need to place it in an air-tight container. Such containers maintain the flavors and aromas of the condiments properly. If you want to extend the life and usefulness, then you should place them in the fridge. This way you will be able to extend the life of your sweet and sour sauce. If you use your sauce regularly and prefer to place it on the counter, then just keep it air-tight. You can then effectively use it for 7 to 10 days. Whatever you do, don’t place it out in the open or it will lose it coloring, aroma, and flavor. Homemade sweet and sour sauces don’t last that long because they don’t have any preservatives in them.
Handling Sweet & Sour Sauce
Usually, you can use your sweet and sour sauce as a dressing. However, it can also serve well as a dip. The sweet and sour sauce can add some extra punch to your dish to enhance the taste. If you are making your sauce at home, then bear in mind that you don’t have to overcook it, or the sauce will taste burnt. You need your sauce to give that fresh flavor and add more to your recipe. Excessive sweet or sour will also overdo the sauce. It must have a settle flavoring.
Cooking Sweet & Sour Sauce
Some people prefer to make their sauces at home and don’t buy from the supermarket. You can prepare best tasting sweet and sour sauce at home in no time. Take a small bowl and whisk some cornstarch with water and put it aside. Then, in a medium-sized saucepan, add brown sugar, rice vinegar, pineapple juice, soy sauce and ketchup into it. Using medium heat, bring these ingredients to a boil. Add the cornstarch solution to the saucepan and cook the sauce until it thickens. It will only take 1 to 2 minutes of your time, and your tasty homemade sweet and sour sauce is ready to enjoy.