Are you tired of the sickly-sweet, gloppy orange impostor that passes for duck sauce at your local grocery store? Do you long for the thin, almost watery, applesauce-based version that you can only find in certain parts of New England?
Look no further!
In this article, we’ll show you how to make your own homemade duck sauce with applesauce. This sweet and sour condiment is perfect for serving alongside egg rolls, wontons, chicken, and more.
Say goodbye to hoarding little packets from your take-out meals and hello to a delicious and easy-to-make condiment that will elevate your Chinese cuisine game.
Let’s get started!
How To Make Duck Sauce With Applesauce?
To make duck sauce with applesauce, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:
– 1 cup of unsweetened applesauce
– 1 tablespoon of apricot jam (or peach jam if that’s all you have)
– 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
First, combine the applesauce and apricot jam in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the jam has melted and the mixture is well combined.
Next, add the garlic powder and stir to incorporate.
Continue to cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and becomes glossy. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the duck sauce cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer it to a small bowl or jar and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
The History Of Duck Sauce
The origins of duck sauce are somewhat unclear, with different stories and theories surrounding its creation. Some believe that it was originally served with deep-fried pressed duck, while others suggest that it was named after a traditional Chinese sour plum duck dish. Despite its name, the sauce is not actually made with duck meat.
The first known recipe for duck sauce appeared in the Boston Globe in 1952, which featured ingredients such as consomme, onion, green pepper, mushroom, tomato, vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, ginger root, and broth. Interestingly, the recipe did not mention duck at all but instead suggested serving the sauce with pork or barbecued spareribs.
Over time, duck sauce became a popular condiment in American Chinese cuisine and is now commonly found in restaurants across the country. It is typically used as a dip for deep-fried dishes like egg rolls or spring rolls and is often served alongside soy sauce, mustard, hot sauce or red chili powder.
Despite its long history and popularity, there is still some debate over what exactly constitutes “authentic” duck sauce. In New England, for example, the sauce is often thinner and more watery than other versions found in different parts of the country. Some people even make their own version at home using ingredients like applesauce or apricot jam. Regardless of its origins or variations, one thing is clear: duck sauce remains a beloved condiment in American Chinese cuisine.
Ingredients You’ll Need
If you want to make a more flavorful duck sauce with applesauce, you can use the following ingredients:
– 3/4 cup of all-natural apricot jam
– 4 tablespoons of rice vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon of low-sodium soy sauce
– 2 medium cloves of fresh minced garlic
– 1 teaspoon of fresh minced ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder
– 1/16 teaspoon of cayenne powder (or to taste)
To prepare this version of duck sauce, combine all the ingredients in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the jam has melted and the mixture is well combined.
Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and becomes glossy. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the duck sauce cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer it to a small bowl or jar and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
This version of duck sauce has a more complex flavor profile due to the addition of garlic, ginger, and chili powder. It pairs well with fried rice, spring rolls, and other Chinese dishes.
Step-by-Step Instructions For Making Duck Sauce With Applesauce
If you want to make duck sauce with applesauce from scratch, here are the step-by-step instructions:
1. Gather your ingredients. You’ll need 1 cup of unsweetened applesauce, 1 tablespoon of apricot jam (or peach jam), and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder.
2. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the applesauce and apricot jam. Stir until the jam has melted and the mixture is well combined.
3. Add the garlic powder and stir to incorporate.
4. Continue to cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and becomes glossy. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the duck sauce cool to room temperature.
6. Once cooled, transfer it to a small bowl or jar and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
That’s it! Making duck sauce with applesauce is easy and quick, and it pairs perfectly with fried rice or any other Chinese-inspired dish. Enjoy!
Tips For Customizing Your Duck Sauce
While the basic recipe for duck sauce with applesauce is simple and delicious, there are a few ways to customize it to your liking. Here are some tips:
– Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more apricot jam or a little honey. Taste as you go and adjust accordingly.
– Tartness: If you like your duck sauce with a tangy kick, add a splash of rice vinegar or lemon juice.
– Spice: For a spicier sauce, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. You can also use fresh minced ginger instead of garlic powder for a zingy flavor.
– Texture: If you prefer a smoother sauce, blend the mixture in a food processor or blender until it reaches your desired consistency.
– Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try different combinations of ingredients to find your perfect duck sauce. Some people like to add soy sauce, hoisin sauce, or even ketchup to their recipe. Get creative and have fun!
Serving Suggestions And Pairings
Duck sauce with applesauce is a versatile condiment that pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are some serving suggestions and pairings to try:
– Serve as a dipping sauce for egg rolls or wontons. The sweet and tangy flavors of the duck sauce with applesauce complement the savory filling of these popular appetizers.
– Use as a glaze for roasted meats such as chicken, pork, or turkey. Brush the sauce over the meat during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking for a deliciously sticky and flavorful finish.
– Drizzle over grilled or roasted vegetables for a burst of flavor. The sweetness of the applesauce pairs well with earthy vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, and beets.
– Use as a spread on sandwiches or wraps. The tangy sweetness of the duck sauce with applesauce adds a unique twist to classic deli meats like turkey or ham.
– Mix with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a quick and easy dip. Add some fresh herbs like chives or parsley for extra flavor.
– Serve as a topping for ice cream or yogurt. The sweet and fruity flavors of the duck sauce with applesauce make it a delicious alternative to traditional fruit toppings.
Storing And Preserving Your Homemade Duck Sauce
Once you’ve made your homemade duck sauce with applesauce, it’s important to store it properly to ensure its freshness and quality. The best way to store your duck sauce is in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help to prevent any bacteria or mold from growing in the sauce.
When storing your duck sauce, make sure to label the container with the date that you made it. This will help you keep track of how long it’s been in the fridge and when it’s time to use it up.
Homemade duck sauce with applesauce can last for up to 2-3 weeks in the refrigerator if stored properly. If you notice any signs of spoilage, such as mold or an off smell, discard the sauce immediately.
If you want to preserve your duck sauce for longer, you can also freeze it. To do this, transfer the cooled sauce to a freezer-safe container and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
