Hot Sauce
Easy homemade hot sauce recipe made with fresh chili peppers, garlic, and vinegar — perfect for tacos, wings, and more.
Ingredients
- 10–12 fresh chili peppers (such as cayenne, habanero, or jalapeño — mix for variety)
- 3 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1 cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar for milder tang)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, balances acidity)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for smooth texture)
Instructions
Prepare The Chilies:
- Wash and roughly chop the chili peppers. You can remove seeds for less heat. (Wear gloves if using very hot peppers.)
Sauté (Optional):
- Heat olive oil in a pan, add garlic and chilies, and sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. This step mellows sharp flavors.
Simmer:
- Add vinegar, salt, and sugar to the pan. Bring to a simmer, then cook gently for 10 minutes.
Blend:
- Transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth. If it’s too thick, add a bit more vinegar or water.
Strain (Optional):
- For a smooth sauce, pour through a fine sieve or cheesecloth.
Bottle And Store:
- Pour the sauce into a clean, sterilized glass bottle or jar.
- Let it cool, then refrigerate. It keeps for 2–3 months.