2 tbsp (36 g) of Thai Sweet Chili Sauce contains approximately 80 calories. If you're someone who enjoys Thai cuisine or spicy, tangy sauces, then you might be curious about this popular condiment. In this article, we'll take a closer look at Thai Sweet Chili Sauce, including its ingredients, health benefits, and usage in cooking.

Thai Sweet Chili Sauce is typically made from a blend of red chili peppers, vinegar, sugar, and garlic. The sauce has a sweet and spicy flavor profile that pairs well with many dishes. In terms of nutritional information, Thai Sweet Chili Sauce is relatively low in calories, fat, and sodium. However, like many condiments, it does contain some added sugar.

Whether you're using Thai Sweet Chili Sauce as a marinade for meat, a dip for spring rolls, or a topping for stir-fried vegetables, there are many ways to incorporate this versatile sauce into your meals. Let's explore some of the ways you can use Thai Sweet Chili Sauce in your cooking.

Calories in 2 tbsp of Thai Sweet Chili Sauce

As mentioned earlier, 2 tbsp (36 g) of Thai Sweet Chili Sauce contains approximately 80 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie condiment compared to other sauces like mayonnaise or ranch dressing. However, it's still important to monitor your portion sizes and intake of added sugars. If you're looking to reduce calories or sugar in your diet, you could try using a smaller amount of sauce or opting for a lower-sugar brand.

Ingredients in Thai Sweet Chili Sauce

The exact ingredients in Thai Sweet Chili Sauce may vary depending on the brand and recipe. However, some common ingredients include: - Red chili peppers - Vinegar - Sugar - Garlic - Salt - Stabilizers or thickeners (e.g. xanthan gum, modified corn starch) Some brands may also add additional ingredients like ginger, lime juice, or fish sauce to their sauce.

Health Benefits of Thai Sweet Chili Sauce

While Thai Sweet Chili Sauce shouldn't be considered a health food, it does have some potential benefits. Firstly, the sauce contains capsaicin, a compound found in chili peppers that may have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects. Capsaicin is also thought to boost metabolism and reduce hunger, which could potentially aid in weight loss. In addition, some of the ingredients in Thai Sweet Chili Sauce, such as garlic and vinegar, have been linked to various health benefits like improved heart health and immune function.

Usage of Thai Sweet Chili Sauce in Cooking

Thai Sweet Chili Sauce is a versatile condiment that can be used in various ways in cooking. Here are some popular uses: - As a dip for spring rolls, chicken nuggets, or other fried foods - As a marinade for chicken, pork, shrimp, or tofu - As a glaze for grilled meats or vegetables - As a topping for stir-fried noodles or rice - As a sauce for pizza or burgers As you can see, there are many ways to incorporate Thai Sweet Chili Sauce into your meals. Experiment with different recipes and serving suggestions to find your favorite way to use the sauce.

How to Make Thai Sweet Chili Sauce at Home

If you're feeling adventurous, you can try making your own Thai Sweet Chili Sauce at home. Here's a basic recipe: - 1/2 cup rice vinegar - 1/2 cup sugar - 1/4 cup water - 3-4 red chili peppers, finely chopped - 2 garlic cloves, minced - 1/2 tsp salt - 1/2 tbsp corn starch Combine all the ingredients in a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly. Let the sauce cool before using or storing in a jar in the fridge.

Popular Brands of Thai Sweet Chili Sauce

There are many brands of Thai Sweet Chili Sauce available on the market. Here are a few popular options: - Mae Ploy: A widely recognized brand that contains chili extract for extra spiciness. - Thai Kitchen: A gluten-free and vegan option made with simple ingredients. - A Taste of Thai: A non-GMO and preservative-free sauce that can also be used as a marinade or salad dressing. - Lee Kum Kee: A Chinese brand that produces a similar sauce labeled as "Chili Garlic Sauce". When choosing a brand, consider factors like flavor, ingredients, and dietary restrictions. Try out a few different brands to see which one you prefer.

Thai Sweet Chili Sauce as a Condiment

As a condiment, Thai Sweet Chili Sauce can add a pop of flavor to many dishes. Some popular ways to use the sauce include: - Tossing with wings or fried chicken - Drizzling over tacos or burrito bowls - Mixing with mayonnaise for a spicy sandwich spread - Serving with grilled or roasted vegetables - Using as a dipping sauce for pizza crust or breadsticks Experiment with different dishes and cuisines to see where Thai Sweet Chili Sauce can add an extra layer of flavor.

Thai Sweet Chili Sauce as a Marinade

Thai Sweet Chili Sauce can also be used as a marinade to infuse meat, seafood, or tofu with flavor. Here are some tips for using the sauce as a marinade: - Combine the sauce with other ingredients like soy sauce, ginger, or lime juice for added complexity. - Use the sauce to marinade chicken, pork, shrimp, or tofu for at least 30 minutes (or up to a few hours). Make sure to reserve some sauce for brushing or drizzling over the cooked meat. - Grill, broil, or bake the marinated protein as desired, basting with the reserved sauce as needed. Thai Sweet Chili Sauce works particularly well as a marinade for grilled or stir-fried dishes.

Side Effects of Thai Sweet Chili Sauce

Most people can enjoy Thai Sweet Chili Sauce without experiencing any side effects. However, here are a few things to keep in mind: - Some people may be sensitive to the spiciness of the sauce and experience digestive discomfort or heartburn. - Some brands may contain artificial preservatives or flavors that could trigger an allergic reaction or exacerbate existing health conditions. - Thai Sweet Chili Sauce is relatively high in sugar, which could be a concern for people with diabetes or those trying to limit their sugar intake. If you have any concerns about eating Thai Sweet Chili Sauce, it's always best to consult with a healthcare provider.

Different Varieties of Thai Sweet Chili Sauce

While the classic Thai Sweet Chili Sauce is made with red chili peppers, there are some variations and adaptations of the sauce. Here are a few options: - Green Sweet Chili Sauce: Made with green chili peppers, this version is slightly less spicy than the classic sauce. - Sriracha Chili Sauce: Similar to Thai Sweet Chili Sauce in flavor, but with a thicker texture and stronger heat. - Korean Chili Sauce: Made with gochujang (Korean chili paste), this sauce has a spicy-sweet umami flavor that pairs well with meats and vegetables. - Mango Chili Sauce: Includes pureed mango for a fruity twist on the classic sauce. Experiment with different varieties of Thai Sweet Chili Sauce to add some diversity to your meals.