12 cheapest stir-fry sauces from pantry staples

Creating a delicious stir-fry doesn’t have to break the bank. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a variety of flavorful sauces that transform simple ingredients into a savory meal. Here are 12 affordable stir-fry sauces that you can easily create using ingredients you likely already have at home.

Soy Sauce and Garlic Stir-Fry Sauce

Soy sauce and garlic form a classic base that pairs well with almost any protein or vegetable. To make this sauce, mix soy sauce with minced garlic, and add a touch of cornstarch to thicken. Adjust the saltiness by adding a bit of water or broth. This sauce works exceptionally well with beef and broccoli, offering a savory depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.

For a little extra kick, consider adding a splash of rice vinegar or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. These additions can enhance the overall taste, making it a versatile choice for various stir-fry dishes.

Ginger and Honey Stir-Fry Sauce

The combination of ginger and honey provides a sweet and spicy kick that’s perfect for chicken or tofu stir-fries. Simply mix grated ginger with honey, soy sauce, and a touch of sesame oil. This sauce complements the natural sweetness of carrots or bell peppers, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

If you prefer a less sweet version, substitute half of the honey with brown sugar or agave syrup. For a more intense ginger flavor, allow the sauce to simmer with a few slices of fresh ginger before using.

Lime and Chili Stir-Fry Sauce

A lime and chili sauce offers a tangy and spicy twist to your stir-fry, ideal for seafood or chicken. Combine fresh lime juice, chili flakes, soy sauce, and a dash of fish sauce for an extra umami punch. This sauce brings a zesty freshness that brightens any dish.

Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of chili flakes or adding a splash of hot sauce. Pair it with vegetables like snap peas or zucchini for a colorful and vibrant meal.

Peanut Butter and Soy Stir-Fry Sauce

For a creamy and nutty flavor, peanut butter and soy sauce make a delightful combination. Mix creamy peanut butter with soy sauce, a bit of water, and a dash of sriracha for heat. This sauce is perfect for noodle-based stir-fries, adding richness and depth.

You can enhance the taste by adding a teaspoon of rice vinegar or lime juice, balancing the richness of the peanut butter with a hint of acidity. This sauce works wonderfully with chicken, beef, or a medley of vegetables.

Teriyaki-Inspired Stir-Fry Sauce

Create a quick teriyaki-inspired sauce by combining soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger. A splash of mirin or sake can add authenticity, but these are optional. This simple sauce is perfect for glazing chicken or salmon, creating a glossy and flavorful finish.

To thicken the sauce, add a cornstarch slurry and simmer until it reaches the desired consistency. For a little extra flavor, consider adding a clove of minced garlic or a spoonful of sesame seeds.

Lemon and Herb Stir-Fry Sauce

A lemon and herb sauce adds a bright and aromatic touch to any stir-fry. Mix lemon juice, olive oil, and a selection of dried herbs like thyme or rosemary. This light sauce is ideal for chicken or vegetable stir-fries, offering a refreshing change from heavier sauces.

For additional flavor, include a tablespoon of Dijon mustard or capers. This sauce pairs particularly well with asparagus, mushrooms, or zucchini, enhancing their natural flavors with citrusy notes.

Hoisin and Soy Stir-Fry Sauce

For a sweet and savory combination, hoisin and soy sauce create a rich and flavorful base. Mix equal parts hoisin sauce and soy sauce, and add a bit of rice vinegar for balance. This sauce is perfect for pork or tofu stir-fries, offering a taste reminiscent of classic Asian dishes.

If you want to add depth, include a teaspoon of freshly grated ginger or a dash of chili paste. This sauce is incredibly versatile and can transform simple ingredients into a gourmet meal.

Vinegar and Sugar Stir-Fry Sauce

A vinegar and sugar sauce provides a sweet and sour element that’s perfect for chicken or pork dishes. Combine white or apple cider vinegar with sugar, soy sauce, and a pinch of salt. This sauce can be adjusted to taste, depending on your preference for sweetness or acidity.

For a more robust flavor, consider adding a bit of ketchup or tomato paste. This sauce works beautifully with bell peppers, onions, and pineapple, creating a dish reminiscent of sweet and sour classics.

Curry Powder and Coconut Milk Stir-Fry Sauce

For a rich and exotic flavor, curry powder and coconut milk make an excellent pair. Mix curry powder with coconut milk, soy sauce, and a touch of lime juice. This sauce is perfect for chicken or shrimp stir-fries, offering a creamy and aromatic profile.

To enhance the flavor, add a teaspoon of fish sauce or a handful of fresh basil leaves. This sauce pairs wonderfully with vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or peas, adding a touch of tropical flair to your meal.

Sesame Oil and Soy Stir-Fry Sauce

Sesame oil and soy sauce create a nutty and savory base that’s both simple and flavorful. Mix soy sauce with a few drops of sesame oil, and add a pinch of sugar for balance. This sauce is versatile and works well with a variety of proteins and vegetables.

For added texture and taste, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds or chopped scallions. This sauce is a staple for many stir-fry dishes and is especially delightful with beef or chicken.

Tomato and Basil Stir-Fry Sauce

For a Mediterranean twist, tomato and basil create a fresh and vibrant sauce. Combine canned tomatoes or tomato sauce with fresh basil, garlic, and a splash of olive oil. This sauce is perfect for chicken or vegetable stir-fries, offering a taste reminiscent of Italian cuisine.

Enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar. This sauce pairs beautifully with zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers, creating a dish that’s both hearty and aromatic.

Oyster Sauce and Garlic Stir-Fry Sauce

Oyster sauce and garlic offer a rich and savory base that’s perfect for beef or mushroom stir-fries. Mix oyster sauce with minced garlic, a splash of soy sauce, and a bit of sugar. This sauce provides a deep umami flavor that’s both satisfying and versatile.

For a more complex taste, add a few drops of sesame oil or a pinch of black pepper. This sauce works well with a variety of vegetables, making it a popular choice for quick and delicious meals.