I’ve always loved recreating my favorite restaurant flavors at home, and Red Lobster’s Dragon Sauce was at the top of my list. After plenty of trial and error, I finally perfected a version that tastes just like the real thing. Trust me, this sauce is a game-changer!
Red Lobster’s Dragon Sauce is a bold, flavorful sauce made with garlic, ginger, soy sauce, honey, and chili flakes. This combination creates a perfect balance of sweetness and heat, making it an ideal pairing for seafood, chicken, or as a dipping sauce for crispy appetizers.
Want to know the secret to making it at home? Keep reading, and I’ll walk you through it step by step!
What Does Red Lobster Dragon Sauce Taste Like?
Red Lobster’s Dragon Sauce is the perfect mix of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors. It has a rich umami base from soy sauce and tomato paste, balanced with the sweetness of honey and the sharp kick of chili flakes.
The garlic and ginger add warmth and depth, while white vinegar gives it a slight tanginess. It’s smooth, thick, and coats your food beautifully, making it an ideal dipping sauce or glaze.
Whether drizzled over seafood, chicken, or veggies, this sauce delivers a bold, restaurant-quality taste that keeps you coming back for more. Want it spicier? Just add extra chili flakes!
Ingredients Required for Red Lobster Dragon Sauce Recipe
Here’s the list of Ingredients you’ll need to make this Red Lobster Dragon Sauce Recipe
- 2 tbsp. vegetable oil
- ½ inch piece of fresh ginger, minced
- 1 large garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp. cornstarch
- 4 tbsp. water (divided)
- 1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp. white vinegar
- 3 tbsp. honey
- 2 tbsp. soy sauce (gluten-free if needed)
- 2 tbsp. tomato paste
Kitchen Utensil You’ll Need
✔ Small mixing bowl
✔ Measuring spoons
✔ Saucepan
✔ Wooden spoon or spatula
✔ Jar for storage
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 7 minutes
Total Time: 12 minutes
Yield: About ¾ cup of sauce
How to Make Red Lobster Dragon Sauce?
Simply follow the steps given below to make your Red Lobster Dragon Sauce at home
Step 1: Prepare the Cornstarch Slurry
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water until smooth. Set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Ginger
Heat vegetable oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced ginger and garlic, stirring constantly, and cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Remaining Ingredients
Pour in the cornstarch slurry, followed by the chili flakes, white vinegar, honey, soy sauce, tomato paste, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of water. Stir well to combine.
Step 4: Simmer Until Thickened
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
Step 5: Cool and Store
Once done, remove from heat and let it cool. Transfer to a jar and store in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Some Tasty Ways To Customize and Pair This Red Lobster Dragon Sauce
Here are my top 10 favorite ways to serve and pair this sauce.
1. Red Lobster Dragon Shrimp – The Classic Combo
Let’s start with the obvious-Red Lobster Dragon Shrimp! Crispy fried shrimp tossed in this sauce? Absolute perfection. I coat the shrimp in cornstarch, pan-fry until golden, then drizzle (okay, drench) them in the sauce. It’s that same mouthwatering dish from Red Lobster, but made right at home.
2. Drizzle Over Red Lobster Steamed Broccoli
Steamed broccoli might not sound exciting, but hear me out-this sauce takes it to the next level. I love steaming fresh broccoli until just tender, then tossing it in a little bit of Dragon Sauce. The garlic, ginger, and chili give the broccoli a bold, flavorful kick. Even picky eaters can’t resist!
3. Pair with Red Lobster Broccoli & Rice
If you’re a fan of Red Lobster’s broccoli and rice combo, you have to try adding this sauce! I usually stir it into a bowl of fluffy rice with steamed broccoli and some grilled chicken or shrimp. The sauce adds a sweet-spicy glaze that brings everything together beautifully.
4. Glaze for Grilled Chicken
I always need an easy way to jazz up grilled chicken, and this sauce does just that. Brush it over grilled chicken breasts or thighs for an instant flavor upgrade. I love making extra sauce to use as a dip on the side.
5. Stir-Fry Sauce for Vegetables
This sauce is perfect for a quick veggie stir-fry. I sauté bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas in a hot pan, then toss them with the Dragon Sauce at the end. It adds just the right amount of heat and sweetness to make the veggies irresistible.
6. Dipping Sauce for Crispy Egg Rolls
Egg rolls and this sauce? A match made in heaven. I love dunking crispy egg rolls into the Dragon Sauce instead of the usual sweet and sour. The slight heat from the chili flakes makes every bite so much better.
7. Drizzled Over Fried Rice
Forget plain fried rice-just drizzle a little Dragon Sauce over the top, and it’s instantly packed with flavor. I like making shrimp fried rice and finishing it with a spoonful of this sauce for that perfect Red Lobster-inspired taste.
8. Toss with Noodles for a Spicy Kick
I love tossing this sauce with cooked noodles for a quick and easy meal. It’s amazing with lo mien, rice noodles, or even spaghetti! I usually add some stir-fried veggies and shrimp for a complete dish.
9. Dip for Crispy Chicken Tenders
Crispy chicken tenders dipped in this sauce? Yes, please! The sweet-spicy glaze works so well with crunchy fried chicken. I’ve even tossed air-fried chicken bites in the sauce for a Red Lobster-style Dragon Chicken.
10. Spread on Burgers or Sandwiches
This might sound a little different, but trust me-Dragon Sauce on a burger is next-level good! I’ve used it as a spread for grilled chicken sandwiches, shrimp po’ boys, and even beef burgers. It adds just the right amount of heat and sweetness to make every bite mouthwatering.
Some Tips on This Red Lobster Dragon Sauce Recipe
1. Don’t Burn the Garlic and Ginger
Trust me, I’ve made this mistake before! Garlic and ginger cook fast, so keep the heat on medium and stir constantly. If they burn, the sauce will taste bitter.
2. Adjust the Spice Level
Love extra heat? Add more chili flakes! Want it mild? Cut them down or leave them out. I like to start with a little and add more if needed.
3. Use Fresh Ginger
I’ve tried both fresh and powdered ginger, and fresh wins every time! It gives the sauce that bold, zesty kick.
4. Mix the Cornstarch Slurry Well
If you don’t stir the cornstarch and water properly, it gets lumpy. I always mix it right before pouring it in, so it stays smooth.
5. Let It Simmer to Thicken
The sauce might look thin at first, but don’t worry! Let it simmer for a few minutes, and it will thicken up perfectly.
6. Taste and Adjust
Before you take it off the heat, give it a little taste. Want it sweeter? Add a drizzle of honey. Need more tang? A splash of vinegar does the trick!
7. Use Low-Sodium Soy Sauce If Needed
Regular soy sauce can be pretty salty, so if you’re watching your sodium, go for a low-sodium version. It still tastes amazing!
8. Store It Right
I always pour my sauce into a jar and keep it in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to a week, but honestly, it never lasts that long in my house!
9. Give It a Good Stir Before Using
When the sauce sits in the fridge, it can thicken up. I just give it a quick stir or warm it for a few seconds, and it’s good to go.
10. Try It on Everything!
This sauce isn’t just for seafood. I drizzle it on chicken, veggies, even rice! One time, I even used it as a dip for fries-so good!
How to Store Red Lobster Dragon Sauce Properly
Refrigerator: Store in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Reheating: Warm in a saucepan over low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.
Red Lobster Dragon Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- ½ inch piece of fresh ginger minced
- 1 large garlic clove minced
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 4 tbsp water divided
- 1 tsp chili flakes adjust to taste
- 2 tbsp white vinegar
- 3 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce gluten-free if needed
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water until smooth. Set aside.
- Heat vegetable oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced ginger and garlic, stirring constantly, and cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the cornstarch slurry, followed by the chili flakes, white vinegar, honey, soy sauce, tomato paste, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of water. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
- Once done, remove from heat and let it cool. Transfer to a jar and store in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Video
Notes
Reheating: Warm in a saucepan over low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.
Common Queries on This Red Lobster Dragon Sauce Recipe
Here, we’ve got you covered with some common questions about the Red Lobster Dragon Sauce that people often ask.
1. What is in Red Dragon Sauce?
Red Dragon Sauce is a bold mix of garlic, ginger, soy sauce, honey, white vinegar, chili flakes, and tomato paste. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy, with a thick, glossy texture that clings beautifully to anything you drizzle it on.
2. What is Dragon Fire Sauce?
Dragon Fire Sauce is another spicy, flavorful sauce often compared to Red Dragon Sauce. While they share similar ingredients, Dragon Fire Sauce usually has extra heat, often with added hot peppers or Sriracha for an extra fiery kick.
3. Is Red Dragon Sauce hot?
Yes, but not overwhelmingly so! The chili flakes give it a warm, lingering heat, but the honey and tomato paste help balance it out. If you love spice, you can always add more chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce. If you prefer it milder, just reduce the chili flakes.
4. What can I eat with Dragon Sauce?
This sauce is incredibly versatile! I love drizzling it over shrimp, chicken, and even roasted veggies. It also makes a fantastic dipping sauce for spring rolls, dumplings, or crispy tofu. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using it as a glaze for grilled meats!
5. Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! I often make a batch and store it in the fridge for up to a week. It actually tastes even better after sitting for a day because the flavors meld together beautifully.
6. How do I store Dragon Sauce?
Keep it in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to 1 week. If it thickens too much after chilling, just add a splash of water and stir it before using.
7. Can I freeze this sauce?
Yes, but I usually don’t because it’s so quick to make fresh! If you do freeze it, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to a month. Thaw it overnight in the fridge and stir well before using.
8. Can I make this sauce gluten-free?
Yes! Just swap the regular soy sauce for a gluten-free version, like tamari or coconut aminos. It won’t change the flavor much at all!
9. How do I make this sauce spicier?
If you love heat, add more chili flakes, a teaspoon of Sriracha, or even a chopped fresh chili while cooking. I’ve tried it with a little cayenne pepper, and it really kicks things up a notch!
10. Can I use this sauce as a marinade?
Yes! I’ve marinated chicken and shrimp in it before grilling, and the results were incredible. Just let your protein sit in the sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking for the best flavor.
This homemade Red Lobster Dragon Sauce is incredibly easy to make and tastes just like the restaurant version! Drizzle it over shrimp, chicken, or even roasted veggies for an instant flavor boost. Want it spicier? Just add extra chili flakes!
Try this sauce today and let me know how you used it-I’d love to hear your creative ideas!
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Fire!!!
It is
Looks great for my broccoli
Yes, I tried so