1 tablespoon of sweet and sour sauce contains approximately 45 calories. This delicious condiment is a great way to add extra flavor to a variety of dishes, whether you're cooking up an Asian-inspired stir fry or simply looking to liven up your sandwich.

Sweet and sour sauce typically consists of ingredients such as sugar, vinegar, and fruit juice, making it a healthier option for adding flavor to your meals than some other condiments. While it does contain sugar, a little goes a long way, so you can still enjoy the taste without overloading on calories.

In this article, we'll explore some of the many ways you can use sweet and sour sauce to add a little extra zing to your meals.

Easy to add extra zing to dishes.

Drizzle it over roasted vegetables for extra flavor. Spread it on a sandwich for a tasty twist on a classic lunch staple. Mix it with mayonnaise or sour cream for a tangy dip.

A little goes a long way.

Start with a small amount and add more as needed, tasting as you go. A little bit can go a long way in marinades, dressings, and other recipes.

A healthier option for adding flavor.

It typically contains fewer calories and less sodium than options like ketchup, mayonnaise, or ranch dressing. It is also made with natural ingredients like vinegar and fruit juice, so it can be a good way to add a little sweetness without relying on artificial sweeteners.

Popular ingredient for Asian-inspired dishes.

It's often used as a dipping sauce for items like egg rolls or potstickers, but can also be used as a marinade for meats or tofu. If you're looking to experiment with Asian flavors in your cooking, sweet and sour sauce is a great place to start.

A condiment perfect for dipping.

Try using it as a dip for chicken wings, shrimp, or vegetables. Mix it with a little soy sauce for an extra savory kick.

Great addition to stir fry dishes.

Simply add a few tablespoons of the sauce to your veggies and protein once they are cooked, and stir until everything is coated. You can also use it as a marinade for your protein before cooking for extra flavor.

Versatile for use in various dishes.

Try adding a little to your next salad dressing for an unexpected twist on the usual vinaigrette. Use it as a glaze for roasted pork or chicken. It can even be used to add a little sweetness to breakfast dishes like pancakes or waffles.

A staple ingredient in Chinese takeout.

It's a staple condiment that is often offered with items like egg rolls, crab rangoon, and dumplings. Consider having a jar of it on hand so you can recreate your favorite takeout dishes at home.

Ideal for marinating meats and vegetables.

The acidity in the vinegar can help tenderize tougher cuts of meat, while also infusing them with flavor. Similarly, marinating vegetables like mushrooms, peppers, or onions can help bring out their natural sweetness.

Adds an umami flavor to dishes.

Umami is often described as a savory or meaty flavor, and can help enhance the overall taste of a dish. Adding a little sweet and sour sauce to soups, stews, or casseroles can help give them a boost of deliciousness.