This 3 ingredient stir fry sauce will help take your stir fry recipes up a notch! Using pantry ingredients that you likely already have at home, it’s so easy to make.

One of my favorite weeknight dinners is stir fry! It’s simple, filling, and gives you the freedom to get really creative. You can make stir fry with a variety of meat, like chicken or beef. You can also use seafood like shrimp. If you’re vegetarian, tofu works wonderfully too! Then, simply load up your favorite veggies and you’re in business. It’s a one-pan meal that has become a staple in my house.

I’m always looking for ways to bring my recipes to the next level, and sauces are a great way to do it. When I discovered how easy it is to make this quick stir fry sauce, I knew I had to try it myself! It’s made with just 3 simple pantry ingredients: cornstarch, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Yup, that’s it! Add this homemade condiment to your stir fry recipes and taste the difference!

Here’s what I’m going to teach you in this post:

The minimal ingredients (remember, you only need 3 things!) for this stir fry sauce recipe.
Some yummy add-ons you can try to make this easy stir fry sauce even better.
Advice on how to make my 3 ingredient stir fry sauce at home and answers to the most frequently asked questions about the process.

You won’t believe how delicious such a simple sauce will make your stir fry recipes. Plus, you can throw it together in less than 10 minutes!

How to Make 3 Ingredient Stir Fry Sauce

A full printable version of this recipe with ingredient measurements is available at the bottom of this post.

STEP ONE: Place your cornstarch in a bowl or mason jar and add some cold water. Whisk until the mixture is smooth.

STEP TWO: Add the soy sauce, sesame oil, and any other seasonings (more on your options below) and whisk until combined. If you’re using a mason jar, simply close the lid and shake until well combined.

STEP THREE: Refrigerate your 3 ingredient stir fry sauce in an airtight container (a mason jar is best) until you’re ready to use. Make sure to shake thoroughly before adding to your stir fry recipes!

Optional Ingredient Add-Ons for Stir Fry Sauce

Brown sugar
Granulated garlic
Ground ginger
Red pepper flakes
Honey
Cayenne pepper

Overhead shot of homemade stir fry sauce

What is Stir Fry?

Stir fry originated in China and refers to a method of cooking. The ingredients are fried in a small amount of oil in a large frying pan or a wok. It’s called “stir fry” because you’re required to stir everything together in order to cook it. A typical stir fry includes protein, vegetables, seasonings, and a sauce, like my easy stir fry sauce!

What Liquid Do You Use For Stir Fry?

My 3 ingredient stir fry sauce is a great option! It combines soy sauce and sesame oil, both sauces that are often seen in Asian-inspired cooking. I also add a bit of cornstarch which acts as a thickener.

It will give your stir fry recipes the flavor and texture that you know and love. Some chefs like to add a bit of vinegar too, but that’s totally optional. My quick stir fry sauce is delicious on its own!

Ideas to Enjoy Your Homemade Stir Fry Sauce With

What Can I Add to Stir Fry For Flavor?

In addition to my easy stir fry sauce, you can add a variety of spices and seasonings to add a bit of extra flavor to your recipes. Things that come to mind are cilantro, cumin, cardamom, garlic, ginger, and citrus juice.

Get creative with your dishes and opt for your flavor preference! You also want to make sure to add plenty of veggies, no matter what you’re using for protein. I love using mushrooms, carrots, broccoli, bell peppers, and water chestnuts in mine — to name a few!

When Making Stir Fry When Do You Add the Sauce?

Now that you’ve made your 3 ingredient stir fry sauce, I’m sure you’re itching to use it! A key trick to adding it to your recipes is to wait until the very end of the cooking time. You want the rest of your ingredients to be almost completely cooked before you add in any type of liquid, including your quick stir fry sauce!

Best Stir Fry Sauce in a jar with spoon and rice

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