Sweet Chili Sauce: The Ultimate Guide to Recipes and Culinary Uses

Introduction

Sweet chili sauce, a delectable fusion of sweetness and spice, has become a staple condiment in kitchens worldwide. Originally hailing from Thailand, where it’s known as “nam chim kai,” this vibrant sauce has transcended cultural boundaries to become one of the most versatile ingredients in modern cooking. Its perfect balance of sweet and heat has made recipes with sweet chili sauce increasingly popular among home cooks seeking to add depth and excitement to their meals.

The sauce’s origins date back centuries in Southeast Asian cuisine, particularly in Thailand, where it was traditionally served alongside grilled meats and seafood. What began as a simple combination of chilies, sugar, and vinegar has evolved into countless variations, each with its unique twist. Today, sweet chili sauce has found its way into Western kitchens, transforming ordinary dishes into flavor-packed culinary adventures.

What makes sweet chili sauce genuinely remarkable is its incredible versatility. Whether you’re glazing proteins, creating quick stir-fries, or simply looking for an elevated dipping sauce, sweet chili sauce delivers consistent flavor with minimal effort. From sweet chili chicken recipes that the whole family will love to elegant sweet chili salmon recipes for dinner parties, this condiment spans the spectrum from casual to sophisticated cooking.

Content Overview

Table of Contents

What Does Sweet Chili Sauce Taste Like?

Sweet chili sauce offers a complex flavor profile that dances on your taste buds. The initial sensation is one of sweetness, typically derived from sugar or honey, which quickly gives way to a mild to moderate heat from red chilies. This heat isn’t overwhelming but provides just enough warmth to balance the sweetness.

The sauce also carries subtle tanginess from vinegar or lime juice, which brightens the overall flavor and prevents it from becoming cloying. Garlic adds depth and savoriness, while hints of ginger bring aromatic complexity. Some variations include fish sauce for umami or lemongrass for citrusy notes.

The texture of sweet chili sauce is typically thick and slightly sticky with visible flecks of chili seeds and garlic, giving it substance that clings beautifully to foods. This textural element makes it particularly effective as a glaze or coating.

Unlike purely hot sauces, sweet chili sauce prioritizes balance over heat, making it accessible to a wide range of palates. It’s this harmonious blend of flavors that makes recipes with sweet chili sauce so universally appealing.

Core Uses for Sweet Chili Sauce

As a Glaze

Sweet chili sauce truly shines when used as a glaze, transforming proteins with its sticky, sweet-spicy coating that caramelizes beautifully under heat.

Chicken: A sweet chili chicken recipe is perhaps the most popular application. The sauce’s sugar content helps create a gorgeous lacquered finish on chicken thighs, breasts, or wings when baked or grilled. Simply brush the sauce onto the chicken during the final 5-10 minutes of cooking to prevent burning, then add another light coating just before serving for maximum flavor.

Salmon: Sweet chili salmon recipes have gained tremendous popularity for good reason. The sauce’s sweetness complements the natural richness of salmon, while the chili heat cuts through the fatty nature of the fish. For best results, glaze the salmon halfway through cooking and finish under the broiler for a slightly charred, caramelized crust.

Pork: From tenderloin to chops, pork takes exceptionally well to sweet chili glazes. The sauce penetrates the meat during cooking, flavoring it from the outside in while creating an appealing sheen.

Tofu: For plant-based options, firm tofu absorbs the flavors beautifully. Press the tofu first to remove excess moisture, then marinate briefly in sweet chili sauce before baking or pan-frying for a vegetarian delight.

In Stir-fries

The viscosity of sweet chili sauce makes it an excellent stir-fry ingredient, coating vegetables and proteins evenly while adding instant flavor.

Shrimp: A sweet chili shrimp recipe comes together in minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. The natural sweetness of shrimp pairs wonderfully with the sauce’s complex flavor profile. Add the sauce during the final minute of cooking to prevent the shrimp from becoming tough.

Chicken: For a quick dinner solution, sweet chili chicken stir-fry combines diced chicken with bell peppers, snap peas, and onions. The sauce brings everything together, creating a cohesive dish that’s both satisfying and simple.

Veggie: Vegetable stir-fries transform from basic to brilliant with the addition of sweet chili sauce. For best results, stir-fry vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers until just tender-crisp, then add the sauce at the end to preserve the vibrant colors and textures.

When using sweet chili sauce in stir-fries, remember that a little goes a long way—start with 2-3 tablespoons per 4 servings and adjust according to taste.

As a Dipping Sauce

In its most traditional application, sweet chili sauce serves as an outstanding dipping sauce that enhances a variety of appetizers and finger foods.

Spring Rolls: Fresh or fried spring rolls find their perfect companion in sweet chili sauce. The sauce’s thickness allows it to cling to the rolls without dripping, while its flavor profile complements the vegetable and herb fillings.

Chicken Tenders: Elevate ordinary chicken tenders by serving them with sweet chili sauce instead of ketchup. The combination of crispy coating and sweet-spicy sauce creates an addictive contrast of textures and flavors.

Fries: Sweet potato or regular fries take on new life when dipped in sweet chili sauce. The sauce’s heat and sweetness cut through the starchy nature of fries, creating a more interesting flavor experience than traditional condiments.

For dipping applications, consider serving the sauce slightly warmed to enhance its aromas and flavors.

In Marinades

Sweet chili sauce makes an excellent foundation for marinades, imparting flavor while helping to tenderize proteins.

For effective marinades, combine equal parts sweet chili sauce and a neutral oil, then add complementary ingredients like soy sauce, lime juice, or ginger. This mixture works wonders on chicken, pork, or firm white fish when allowed to marinate for 2-8 hours in the refrigerator.

The sugar content helps achieve beautiful caramelization during cooking, while the acids in the sauce work to tenderize tougher cuts of meat.

As a Dressing Base

Transform ordinary salads with sweet chili-based dressings that deliver both sweetness and heat.

Create a simple dressing by whisking together 2 parts sweet chili sauce with 1 part lime juice and 1 part neutral oil. Add cilantro and a dash of fish sauce for an authentic Southeast Asian flavor profile. This dressing works particularly well with salads featuring crunchy vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers.

For creamy variations, blend sweet chili sauce with Greek yogurt or mayonnaise for a luscious dressing that pairs beautifully with grilled chicken salads or as a slaw dressing.

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Added to Burgers/Meatballs

Incorporate sweet chili sauce directly into ground meat mixtures to infuse burgers and meatballs with moisture and flavor.

For burgers, add 2 tablespoons of sweet chili sauce per pound of ground meat, along with finely minced garlic and green onions. The sauce helps keep the patties juicy while cooking and adds a subtle sweetness that complements the savory meat.

Meatballs benefit similarly, with the sauce adding both flavor and helping to bind the ingredients together. For an Asian-inspired appetizer, glaze cooked meatballs with additional sweet chili sauce before serving.

Drizzled over Roasted Vegetables

Elevate simple roasted vegetables by finishing them with a drizzle of sweet chili sauce during the last few minutes of roasting.

Vegetables with natural sweetness—like carrots, sweet potatoes, and Brussels sprouts—pair exceptionally well with this treatment. The sauce caramelizes slightly in the oven’s heat, creating glossy, flavor-packed vegetables that shine as a side dish.

For best results, roast vegetables until almost done, then brush lightly with the sauce and return to the oven for 3-5 minutes to set the glaze without burning.

Our Top Recipes with Sweet Chili Sauce

Sweet Chili Glazed Chicken Thighs

This crowd-pleasing sweet chili chicken recipe transforms humble chicken thighs into a caramelized delight that’s both impressive and simple to prepare.

Ingredients:

• 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 3/4 cup sweet chili sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Method:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
3. Place chicken thighs on a lined baking sheet and brush with half the sauce mixture.
4. Bake for 25 minutes, then brush with remaining sauce.
5. Increase oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) and bake for another 10-15 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and glaze is caramelized.
6. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

The combination of sweet chili sauce and soy creates a perfect umami-rich glaze that caramelizes on the chicken skin, while the meat remains tender and juicy underneath.

Honey Sweet Chili Salmon

This elegant sweet chili salmon recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges for serving

Method:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sweet chili sauce, honey, lime juice, sesame oil, and garlic.
3. Place salmon fillets on a parchment-lined baking sheet and brush generously with the sauce.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes until salmon flakes easily with a fork.
5. During the last 2 minutes, switch to the broil setting to caramelize the top.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

The honey enhances the natural sweetness of the sweet chili sauce, creating a glaze that perfectly complements the salmon’s rich flavor.

Crispy Sweet Chili Shrimp

This addictive sweet chili shrimp recipe features crispy, golden shrimp coated in a glossy sweet chili sauce that’s impossible to resist.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/3 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3/4 cup sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

Method:

1. In a bowl, toss shrimp with cornstarch, salt, and white pepper until evenly coated.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Cook shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
4. Remove cooked shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate.
5. In a small bowl, mix sweet chili sauce, rice vinegar, and soy sauce.
6. Return all shrimp to the pan, pour sauce over, and toss gently to coat for 1-2 minutes.
7. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

The cornstarch coating creates wonderfully crispy shrimp that holds up to the sauce without becoming soggy, resulting in the perfect texture contrast.

Sweet Chili Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu

This vibrant vegetarian dish showcases how sweet chili sauce can transform simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal.

Ingredients:

• 14 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup snow peas
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup vegetable broth
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or cilantro

Method:

1. Toss tofu cubes in cornstarch until lightly coated.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Fry tofu until golden and crisp on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove to a plate.
4. Add remaining oil to the pan and stir-fry vegetables, garlic, and ginger for 3-4 minutes until crisp-tender.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and vegetable broth.
6. Return tofu to the pan, add sauce mixture, and toss gently to coat everything.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
8. Garnish with green onions and fresh herbs before serving.

The rainbow of vegetables provides texture and nutrition, while the tofu absorbs the sweet chili sauce beautifully for a satisfying meatless main dish.

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Sweet Chili Meatballs

These party-perfect meatballs incorporate sweet chili sauce both in the mixture and as a glaze for maximum flavor impact.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground chicken or turkey
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• For the glaze:
  • 3/4 cup sweet chili sauce
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Method:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, sweet chili sauce, green onions, garlic, ginger, and salt.
3. Form into 1-inch meatballs and place on a lined baking sheet.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, whisk together glaze ingredients in a saucepan and simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Toss cooked meatballs in the glaze and return to the oven for 5 minutes to set.
7. Serve hot as an appetizer or over rice for a main dish.

The sweet chili sauce in the meat mixture keeps the meatballs moist, while the glaze creates an irresistible sticky coating that’s perfect for serving at gatherings.

Tips for Cooking with Sweet Chili Sauce

Balancing Sweetness and Spice

While store-bought sweet chili sauces generally have a well-balanced flavor profile, you may sometimes need to adjust them for specific recipes with sweet chili sauce:

• To increase sweetness: Add honey, brown sugar, or agave syrup in small increments (start with 1 teaspoon per 1/4 cup of sauce).
• To increase heat: Stir in freshly minced chili, a dash of cayenne pepper, or a few drops of sriracha sauce.
• To add tanginess: A squeeze of lime or lemon juice brightens the flavor and cuts through excessive sweetness.
• For deeper flavor: Add a splash of fish sauce or soy sauce to enhance umami notes.

Always adjust gradually and taste as you go to maintain the harmonious balance that makes sweet chili sauce special.

Avoiding Burning (Sugar Content)

The high sugar content in sweet chili sauce means it can burn quickly if not handled properly:

Cooking Method	When to Add Sweet Chili Sauce	Why This Timing Works
Grilling	Last 3-5 minutes of cooking	Prevents charring while allowing caramelization
Baking	Halfway through cooking time, with final brush before serving	Creates layers of flavor without burning
Stir-frying	After proteins are cooked and vegetables are tender-crisp	Prevents sauce from breaking down
Broiling	Last 1-2 minutes only	Achieves caramelization without burning

Additionally, consider thinning the sauce with a bit of broth or water when using it in high-heat cooking methods, which helps prevent burning while maintaining flavor.

When to Add During Cooking

Timing is crucial when incorporating sweet chili sauce into recipes:

For Proteins (Chicken, Salmon, etc.):

• As a marinade: Before cooking (up to 8 hours)
• As a glaze: During the last quarter of the cooking time
• As a finishing sauce: After cooking, brushed on just before serving

For Stir-fries:

• Add after all ingredients are nearly cooked
• Toss for 1-2 minutes to coat ingredients and thicken slightly

For Roasted Vegetables:

• Brush lightly during the last 5 minutes of roasting
• For more intense flavor, toss vegetables in a mixture of oil and sweet chili sauce before roasting, but watch carefully to prevent burning

Remember that heat intensifies the sauce’s flavor, so using it as a finishing element often delivers the brightest taste.

Making Your Sweet Chili Sauce

While store-bought varieties offer convenience, homemade sweet chili sauce provides unparalleled freshness and the ability to customize the flavor profile to your taste.

Benefits of Homemade Sweet Chili Sauce:

• Control over heat level and sweetness
• No artificial preservatives or colors
• Opportunity to use high-quality ingredients
• Ability to incorporate unique additions like lemongrass, kaffir lime, or different chili varieties
• Cost-effective, especially if you use sweet chili sauce frequently in recipes

Basic Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rice vinegar
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons sambal oelek or red chili flakes
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch dissolved in 2 tablespoons water
• 1 teaspoon salt

Method:

1. In a saucepan, combine vinegar, sugar, water, garlic, chili paste, and salt.
2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
3. Simmer for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
4. Whisk in cornstarch slurry and simmer for 2-3 more minutes until thickened.
5. Cool completely before transferring to a sterilized jar.
6. Store refrigerated for up to 3 weeks.

This homemade version serves as an excellent base for all the recipes with sweet chili sauce mentioned previously.

Pairing Suggestions

Side Dishes That Complement Sweet Chili Recipes

When serving main dishes featuring sweet chili sauce, consider these complementary sides:

• Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness and creaminess balance the sauce’s heat.
• Cucumber Salad: The cool crispness provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet chili’s warmth.
• Steamed Bok Choy or Chinese Broccoli: Simple green vegetables dressed with sesame oil complement without competing.
• Pickled Vegetables: The acidity cuts through the sweetness of the sauce.
• Jasmine Rice: The floral aroma pairs beautifully with sweet chili dishes.

Beverage Pairings

The complex flavor profile of sweet chili sauce calls for beverages that can stand up to its bold character:

• Off-dry Riesling: The wine’s slight sweetness harmonizes with the sauce while its acidity refreshes the palate.
• Thai Iced Tea: The creamy sweetness tempers the chili heat.
• Lemongrass-Ginger Iced Tea: Herbal notes complement the sauce’s Asian flavor profile.
• Wheat Beer with Citrus: The light, citrusy notes cut through the sauce’s richness.
• Cucumber-Mint Water: A refreshing non-alcoholic option that cools the palate.

When planning a meal featuring recipes with sweet chili sauce, consider the overall balance of flavors, aiming for side dishes and beverages that either complement or provide counterpoint to the sweet-spicy main attraction.

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Variations & Substitutions

Adjusting Heat and Sweetness

Different recipes and personal preferences may call for variations to the standard sweet chili sauce:

For Less Heat:

• Reduce chili flakes or paste in homemade versions
• Mix store-bought sweet chili sauce with apricot or peach preserves
• Add a tablespoon of honey to mellow the heat

For More Heat:

• Stir in fresh minced Thai bird chilies
• Add a teaspoon of chili oil
• Incorporate a small amount of gochujang for complex heat

For Less Sweet:

• Dilute with a bit of rice vinegar and an extra pinch of salt
• Mix with unsweetened rice wine or chicken broth
• Add lime juice to brighten and cut the sweetness

Sweet Chili Sauce Substitutes

If you find yourself without sweet chili sauce when preparing recipes that call for it, try these alternatives:

1. Quick Emergency Substitute: Mix 3 parts apricot or peach jam with 1 part sriracha sauce. Add a splash of rice vinegar if available.
2. Thai-Inspired Alternative: Combine 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon sriracha, 1 teaspoon rice vinegar, and a minced garlic clove.
3. Pantry Staples Version: Mix 3 tablespoons ketchup with 1 tablespoon honey, 1 teaspoon hot sauce, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and a splash of vinegar.

While these substitutions won’t perfectly replicate the complexity of sweet chili sauce, they can save your recipe in a pinch while maintaining the essential sweet-spicy balance.

FAQ Section

Is sweet chili sauce spicy?

Sweet chili sauce is mildly to moderately spicy, with the sweetness generally taking precedence over heat. The spice level can vary between brands, but most commercial varieties aim for broad appeal with a gentle warmth rather than intense heat. If you’re sensitive to spice, look for labels specifying “mild” or test a small amount before adding it to recipes with sweet chili sauce.

How long does sweet chili sauce last?

Store-bought, unopened sweet chili sauce typically lasts 1-2 years when stored in a cool, dark pantry. Once opened, refrigerate the sauce immediately and use within 6-9 months for optimal flavor. Homemade sweet chili sauce has a shorter shelf life—about 2-3 weeks when properly refrigerated in a sterilized container. Always check for signs of spoilage like mold, off odors, or unusual discoloration before using.

Is sweet chili sauce gluten-free?

Many commercial sweet chili sauces are naturally gluten-free, as the basic ingredients (chilies, sugar, vinegar, garlic) don’t contain gluten. However, some brands may include wheat-derived thickeners or soy sauce containing wheat. Always check ingredient labels carefully if you have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. For certainty, look for products specifically labeled “gluten-free” or make your sauce using verified gluten-free ingredients.

Can I use sweet chili sauce for marinating?

Sweet chili sauce makes an excellent marinade base for proteins like chicken, pork, and firm fish. For effective marination, combine 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce with 2 tablespoons neutral oil and additional aromatics like minced ginger or garlic. The sugar content helps with caramelization, while the acids tenderize the meat. For best results, marinate chicken or pork for 2-8 hours and fish for 30 minutes to 1 hour. The remaining marinade can be reduced and used as a sauce, but only after bringing it to a full boil for food safety.

What proteins work best with sweet chili sauce?

While sweet chili sauce is remarkably versatile, it pairs particularly well with:

• Chicken (especially thighs and wings)
• Salmon and firm white fish
• Shrimp and scallops
• Pork tenderloin and chops
• Firm tofu

These proteins have mild flavor profiles that allow the sauce to shine without being overwhelmed. For beef, sweet chili sauce works best in stir-fries rather than as a primary flavor component, as beef’s stronger flavor can compete with the sauce’s nuances.

Can I make sweet chili sauce less sweet?

To reduce the sweetness of store-bought sweet chili sauce, add acid components like rice vinegar, lime juice, or a small amount of tamarind paste. Start with 1 teaspoon per 1/4 cup of sauce and adjust to taste. Adding a pinch of salt can also help balance excessive sweetness by enhancing other flavor notes. For more substantial modification, dilute the sauce with a bit of chicken broth and a dash of fish sauce or soy sauce to maintain flavor complexity while reducing sugar impact.

How do I thicken sweet chili sauce?

If your sweet chili sauce is too thin for glazing or dipping, simmer it in a small saucepan over medium-low heat until reduced to your desired consistency. For faster thickening, create a slurry with 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water for each 1/2 cup of sauce. Whisk this into the simmering sauce and cook for 1-2 minutes until thickened. Avoid over-thickening, as the sauce will continue to set slightly as it cools.

Can I freeze sweet chili sauce?

Sweet chili sauce freezes well for up to 3 months. Freeze in ice cube trays for convenient portion control, then transfer the frozen cubes to a freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or use frozen cubes directly in hot dishes like stir-fries. The texture may become slightly thinner after freezing, but simmering briefly will restore the proper consistency. This freezing method works especially well for homemade sauce or when you have leftover sauce from a large bottle.

Conclusion

From its humble origins in Southeast Asia to its current status as a global condiment star, sweet chili sauce has proven itself an indispensable ingredient for home cooks seeking to add dimension to their cooking with minimal effort. Its perfect balance of sweet and heat makes recipes with sweet chili sauce accessible to most palates while still delivering exciting flavor.

Whether you’re creating a quick sweet chili chicken recipe for a weeknight dinner, impressing guests with an elegant sweet chili salmon dish, or whipping up sweet chili shrimp for appetizers, this versatile sauce delivers consistent results with incredible ease.

As you experiment with the recipes and techniques shared in this guide, don’t be afraid to make the sauce your own by adjusting heat levels, sweetness, or complementary flavors. The joy of cooking with sweet chili sauce lies in its adaptability and foolproof nature—it’s difficult to go wrong when this balanced condiment is in your culinary arsenal.

With its incredible versatility spanning proteins, vegetables, marinades, and dressings, sweet chili sauce deserves a permanent place in your refrigerator door. Once you discover how effortlessly it transforms ordinary ingredients into extraordinary meals, you’ll find yourself reaching for it time and again, making it truly one of the most valuable ingredients in the modern kitchen.