This sweet, tangy, and slightly creamy onion sauce is perfect for drizzling over sandwiches, burgers, grilled meats, and salads. Inspired by Subway’s classic version, this homemade sauce offers the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and zesty flavors with a touch of poppy seeds for texture.

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Ingredients

Base Ingredients:

• ⅔ cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create a syrupy consistency.
• ½ cup cold water – The base for the sauce.
• 6 tbsp white or distilled vinegar – Provides the tangy contrast.
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (or arrowroot powder) – Thickens the sauce for the perfect texture.

Flavor Enhancers:

• 1 tbsp minced onion flakes – Adds texture and depth.
• 2 ½ tsp Dijon mustard – Gives a creamy tangy base.
• 2 ½ tsp mustard powder – Enhances the overall mustard flavor.
• ¾ tsp celery salt – Brings a mild, aromatic depth.
• ¾ tsp fresh onion juice – Use a garlic press to extract juice from an onion for extra flavor.

Seasonings & Final Touches:

• 1 tsp poppy seeds – Adds texture and visual appeal.
• ½ tsp onion powder – Boosts onion flavor.
• ¼ tsp garlic powder – Adds a subtle garlic note.
• ½ tsp salt – Balances sweetness.
• ⅓ tsp paprika – Adds mild warmth and color.
• ¼ tsp black pepper – Adds a hint of spice.
• 1–2 drops sesame oil – Optional, but enhances the depth of flavor.

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Instructions

Step 1: Mix the Ingredients

1. In a small saucepan, whisk together:
   • Sugar
   • Water
   • Vinegar
   • Cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)
   • Minced onion flakes
   • Dijon mustard
   • Mustard powder
   • Celery salt
   • Fresh onion juice
2. Stir well until the mixture is fully combined and no lumps remain.

Step 2: Heat and Stir

1. Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and stir constantly as the sauce begins to warm up and thicken.
2. Keep stirring to prevent clumps from forming as the cornstarch activates.

Step 3: Add the Seasonings

1. Once the sauce starts bubbling slightly, reduce the heat to medium-low.
2. Stir in:
   • Poppy seeds
   • Onion powder
   • Garlic powder
   • Salt
   • Paprika
   • Black pepper
   • Sesame oil (if using)

Step 4: Simmer Until Thick

1. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until it reaches a smooth, slightly thick consistency.
2. If the sauce thickens too much, add 1 teaspoon of water at a time until the desired texture is achieved.

Step 5: Cool and Store

1. Remove from heat and allow the sauce to cool slightly.
2. Transfer the sauce to a clean jar or airtight container.

Step 6: Refrigerate for Best Flavor

1. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours (preferably overnight) to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
2. Shake or stir before serving.

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Serving Suggestions

✔ Drizzle over sandwiches, wraps, burgers, or hot dogs.
✔ Dip for fries, chicken tenders, or grilled meats.
✔ Toss into salads or slaws for extra flavor.
✔ Use as a marinade for chicken or pork.

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Storage & Shelf Life

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture may change.

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Nutritional Information (Per Tablespoon, Approximate)

• Calories: ~40 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fat: 0.2g
• Protein: 0g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Sugar: 8g

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Why You’ll Love This Sauce

✔ Homemade & Healthier – No artificial preservatives or additives.
✔ Customizable – Adjust sweetness, tanginess, or spice levels to your liking.
✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 15 minutes!