10 Sweet and Sour Pairings You Haven't Tried Yet
Do you love the contrast of sweet and sour flavors in your favorite dishes? If you're looking to expand your culinary horizons, consider trying these 10 sweet and sour pairings that you may not have tried yet.
1. Pineapple and Sriracha
This pairing offers a perfect balance of sweetness from the pineapple and heat from the Sriracha sauce. Try it as a glaze for chicken or shrimp skewers.
2. Cranberry and Lime
While cranberry sauce is a staple during Thanksgiving, the pairing of cranberry and lime offers a more refreshing and tangy twist. Add these two ingredients to your salad or use it to create a marinade for pork or fish.
3. Mango and Vinegar
Don't let the idea of mixing sweet with vinegar scare you off. The sweetness of mango pairs perfectly with vinegar, resulting in a tangy and slightly sweet sauce that complements dishes like grilled chicken and roasted vegetables.
4. Kiwi and Lemon
Kiwi is a refreshing and sweet fruit that pairs well with the zesty tang of lemon. Try this combination in a summer salad or in a salsa for fish or chicken tacos.
5. Cherries and Balsamic
While cherries are often associated with desserts, they can add a unique flavor to savory dishes when paired with balsamic vinegar. Use this combo to create a glaze for pork chops or as a topping for grilled vegetables.
6. Blueberries and Mustard
If you're looking for an unconventional sauce for your next barbecue, try mixing blueberries with mustard. The sweetness of the blueberries balances out the spiciness of the mustard, resulting in a delicious sauce for grilled chicken or pork ribs.
7. Orange and Soy Sauce
The zesty flavor of orange and the salty taste of soy sauce surprisingly complement each other when paired together. Use this pairing as a marinade for salmon or shrimp or as a dipping sauce for spring rolls.
8. Apples and Curry
Apples have a natural sweetness that pairs well with the spices used in curry dishes. Add diced apples to your next curry recipe for a unique and flavorful twist.
9. Grapefruit and Honey
The tartness of grapefruit works well with the sweetness of honey, creating a delicious dressing for salads or marinade for chicken or pork. Add the juice of half a grapefruit to a tablespoon of honey and mix well.
10. Pomegranate and Tahini
The combination of sweet pomegranate and nutty tahini creates a flavorful Middle Eastern-inspired sauce that goes well with grilled meats or roasted vegetables. Mix equal parts pomegranate molasses and tahini, and add a squeeze of lemon juice and a pinch of salt to taste.
Next time you're looking for a new flavor sensation, try one of these sweet and sour pairings that you may not have thought of yet. Not only will your taste buds thank you, but you may also find a new favorite dish to add to your recipe repertoire.