Sweet Chili Sauce

1/3 cup rice vinegar

1/3 cup water

1/3 cup + 2 tablespoons sugar

1 tablespoon rice wine

1-2 teaspoons dried red chili flakes 

1-1/2 teaspoons finely minced garlic

1 teaspoon finely minced ginger

1 teaspoon soy sauce 

2 teaspoons cornstarch dissolved in 1 tablespoon water 

1-2 drops natural red food coloring (optional)

Place all of the ingredients except for the cornstarch mixture in a small saucepan and bring it to a boil, stirring regularly. Once the sugar is dissolved stir in the cornstarch mixture, stirring continually until thickened, about 1 minute. Let the sauce cool completely, pour into an airtight jar and store in the refrigerator. Will keep for up to a week. Makes about 1 cup.