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Sweet and Tangy Orange Sauce for Stir-Fry Recipe


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4.1 from 6 reviews

  • Author: Molly
  • Total Time: 17 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This vibrant and tangy orange sauce recipe is perfect for adding a burst of citrus flavor to your favorite dishes like orange chicken, tofu, or stir-fried vegetables. Made with a blend of orange juice, brown sugar, maple syrup, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, this sauce offers a harmonious balance of sweet, savory, and slightly tangy notes. It thickens beautifully with cornstarch, resulting in a glossy, velvety finish that clings delightfully to your meal.


Ingredients

Liquid Ingredients

  • 1/3 cup water
  • 1/2 cup orange juice
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup water (for slurry)

Sweeteners

  • 1/3 cup brown sugar

Aromatics & Oils

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh minced ginger
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil (or other neutral oil)

Thickening Agent

  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch


Instructions

  1. Heat the Oil: In a saucepan, warm 1 teaspoon of olive oil or a neutral-flavored oil over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the aromatics.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and ginger to the hot oil and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning and to release their fragrant flavors.
  3. Add Liquids and Sweeteners: Pour in 1/3 cup water, orange juice, brown sugar, maple syrup, rice vinegar, and soy sauce. Stir well and let the mixture heat through for about 3 minutes, stirring regularly to combine flavors.
  4. Prepare Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1/4 cup water until completely smooth to form a slurry that will thicken the sauce.
  5. Thicken the Sauce: Slowly whisk the cornstarch slurry into the simmering sauce. Continue cooking while stirring constantly for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens to a glossy, smooth consistency.
  6. Serve: Use the finished orange sauce immediately by pouring it over your favorite dishes like orange chicken, orange tofu, orange cauliflower, or as a flavorful stir-fry sauce for vegetables.

Notes

  • Adjust the sweetness or tanginess by varying the amount of maple syrup or rice vinegar according to your taste preferences.
  • For a gluten-free version, ensure the soy sauce used is tamari or specifically gluten-free soy sauce.
  • The sauce thickens as it cools, so serve it warm for the best texture and flavor.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; reheat gently while stirring before serving.
  • Freshly minced ginger and garlic provide the best flavor, but powdered versions can be used in a pinch with adjusted quantities.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Sauce
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Asian-American