Easiest Stir Fry Sauce

I used to just grab whatever stir fry sauce was on sale at the store, thinking it would save me time.

But every single one ended up being way too salty, weirdly sweet, or somehow managed to be both. Nothing ever tasted quite right.

Then I finally tried making my own stir fry sauce at home—and wow. Total game-changer.

Now I whip up this easy sauce in five minutes flat, no fancy ingredients or equipment needed.

It’s perfectly balanced, savory, and has just the right kick—better than anything I’ve ever bought in a bottle.

I usually make a small batch and keep it in a jar in the fridge for those nights when I’m tired and hungry and just need dinner to happen.

It’s my go-to for tossing with noodles, pouring over rice, or drizzling onto roasted veggies. Basically, if it’s in a bowl and warm, this sauce is going on it.

And yea, my family loves Chinese dinners for sure!

All you need is a whisk and a few pantry staples you probably already have.

If you’ve got soy sauce, garlic, and a spoon? You’re already halfway there.

What You Need to Make an Easy Stir Fry Sauce

This sauce is basically my weeknight secret weapon.

It’s fast, easy, and made with ingredients I always have on hand.

Soy sauce – The salty, umami base that makes everything taste like takeout.
Sesame oil – Just a little goes a long way and adds that classic stir fry flavor.
Rice vinegar – Gives the sauce a little tang and balance.
Brown sugar – Sweetens things up without going overboard.
Cornstarch – Thickens the sauce so it clings to every bite.
Water – Helps smooth everything out and keeps it pourable.
Garlic – Because garlic makes everything better.
Fresh ginger – Totally optional, but adds a little zing if you’ve got it.

How to Make an Easy Stir Fry Sauce

1. Mix the Base

Grab a small bowl or jar and add the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and brown sugar.

Give it a quick stir or shake until the sugar looks mostly dissolved.

Warm water helps the sugar dissolve faster if you’re mixing by hand.

2. Add the Slurry

Whisk in the cornstarch and water until the mixture looks smooth and there are no lumps.

It might feel a little thin but don’t worry, it thickens up when heated.

Use a fork or small whisk to break up any stubborn bits of cornstarch.

3. Flavor Boost

Toss in the garlic and ginger (if you’re using it) and stir everything together.

You’re officially done with prep.

If you’re a garlic lover, you can absolutely double it!

4. Heat Things Up

Pour the sauce into a small saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring the whole time.

After a minute or two, it’ll start to thicken like magic.

If it gets too thick, add a splash of water to loosen it up.

5. Use or Store

Once it’s glossy and coats the back of a spoon, take it off the heat.

You can use it right away or stash it in the fridge for later.

Store it in a jar and give it a shake before using (it separates a bit as it sits).

Easiest Stir Fry Sauce Recipe

This quick and flavorful sauce is perfect for tossing with veggies, noodles, or your favorite protein.

It takes less than five minutes and uses pantry staples you probably already have.

Ingredients

1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/2 cup water
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)

Steps

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and brown sugar.
Add cornstarch and water, then whisk until smooth and fully combined.
Stir in garlic and ginger.
Pour into a small saucepan and heat over medium, stirring constantly.
Cook for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens to your liking.
Remove from heat and use immediately, or let it cool and refrigerate for later.