Recipe Development

Balancing Heat, Sweet, and Acid

By ChefFlavour

Published on 3rd August 2025

(30 reviews)

The Flavor Triangle

Great sauce is all about balance. Think of it as a triangle with three points: Heat (chillies), Sweet (sugar, fruit), and Acid (vinegar, citrus).

Start with your base ingredients.

Add acid to brighten flavors and cut through richness.

Use sugar or fruit to balance the heat and acid. Honey, molasses, and maple syrup add complexity.

Taste at every step! The flavor will evolve as it cooks.

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