Are you ready to elevate your culinary game with a condiment that's both unexpectedly delicious and incredibly easy to make? Then get ready to discover the magic of homemade cherry hot sauce! This recipe blends the sweet burst of cherries with a fiery kick, creating a versatile sauce perfect for everything from grilled chicken and tacos to pizza and even ice cream (yes, really!). It's a fun, flavorful adventure that will impress your friends and family, proving that homemade cooking can be quick, healthy, and incredibly rewarding. This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh or frozen pitted cherries (about 3 cups)
- 1 red bell pepper, roughly chopped
- 2-3 red jalapeños, roughly chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (or maple syrup for a refined sugar-free option)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky depth of flavor)
Instructions:
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, red bell pepper, jalapeños, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using).
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Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the cherries have softened and broken down. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Blend: Carefully transfer the mixture to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth. Be cautious when blending hot liquids; vent the blender lid to prevent pressure buildup.
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Strain (Optional): For a smoother sauce, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any seeds or skins. This step is optional but results in a beautifully smooth and seed-free sauce.
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Bottle and Store: Once cooled, pour the cherry hot sauce into sterilized bottles or jars. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.
Tips for the Best Cherry Hot Sauce:
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Adjust the Heat: Control the spiciness by adjusting the number of jalapeños and whether or not you remove the seeds. For a milder sauce, use fewer jalapeños or remove all the seeds and membranes. For extra heat, add a few slices of habanero pepper.
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Sweetness Level: The sweetness of the sauce can also be adjusted by adding more or less brown sugar (or maple syrup). Taste and adjust to your preference.
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Fresh vs. Frozen Cherries: Both fresh and frozen cherries work well in this recipe. If using frozen cherries, you may not need to simmer for as long.
Variations:
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Spicy Cherry BBQ Sauce: Add 1/4 cup of ketchup and 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce to the sauce before blending for a delicious BBQ twist.
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Cherry Chipotle Hot Sauce: Incorporate 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky and spicy variation.
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Garlic Cherry Hot Sauce: Add 2-3 cloves of minced garlic along with the other ingredients for an extra layer of flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 50-60 calories
- Fat: Negligible
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15 grams
- Sugar: Approximately 10 grams
- Protein: Approximately 1 gram
This cherry hot sauce is a delightful addition to your repertoire of delicious dishes and best recipes. Its unique flavor profile makes it a fantastic homemade cooking project, perfect for spice lovers and those looking to explore new flavor combinations. Enjoy!