Tired of bland store-bought sauces? Craving a homemade condiment that packs a punch? Then get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this vibrant and delicious habanero mango hot sauce! This recipe is surprisingly easy, perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a quick and healthy addition to their pantry. It's the perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy – a flavor explosion that will elevate any dish from tacos to eggs. Get ready to experience the ultimate in homemade cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ripe mangoes, peeled and chopped
- 6-8 habanero peppers, stemmed and roughly chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 cup white vinegar (apple cider vinegar works well too)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional, adds a lovely depth of flavor)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Ingredients: Wash and thoroughly dry all your ingredients. Wearing gloves is highly recommended when handling habaneros to avoid skin irritation. Carefully remove the stems and roughly chop the mangoes and peppers.
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Combine and Simmer: In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped mangoes, habaneros, vinegar, water, lime juice, brown sugar, salt, and cumin (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
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Reduce and Blend: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the mangoes are very soft and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Blend to Perfection: Carefully transfer the simmered mixture to a blender (or use an immersion blender). Blend until completely smooth. If using a regular blender, vent the lid slightly to avoid pressure build-up.
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Strain (Optional): For a smoother sauce without seeds or bits of pepper skin, strain the blended mixture through a fine-mesh sieve. This step is entirely optional, based on your preference.
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Bottle and Store: Pour the hot sauce into sterilized jars or bottles. Ensure the jars are completely sealed to maintain freshness. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.
Cooking Tips and Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the number of habaneros to control the spiciness. Start with fewer peppers and add more to taste if you prefer an extra kick. Remember, the heat can build gradually!
- Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more brown sugar to your liking. A touch of honey or maple syrup also works well.
- Citrus Twist: Experiment with different citrus juices like orange or grapefruit for a unique flavor profile.
- Garlic Infusion: Add a few cloves of garlic to the saucepan during simmering for an extra layer of flavor.
- Other Fruits: Try adding other fruits like pineapple or peaches for a different flavor combination.
Nutritional Information (per 2 tablespoon serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 25
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 6g
- Sugar: Approximately 4g
- Protein: Less than 1g
- Fat: Less than 1g
This habanero mango hot sauce is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes. Use it to spice up your tacos, eggs, grilled chicken, or even drizzle it over your favorite snacks. Enjoy the delicious and healthy results of your homemade cooking! This is sure to become one of your best recipes – perfect for quick dinner ideas and adding a punch to your healthy meals.