Are you ready to elevate your culinary game with a simple yet incredibly flavorful homemade condiment? Then look no further! This hot sauce vinegar recipe is perfect for adding a zing to everything from salads and roasted vegetables to eggs and even cocktails. It's a quick, easy, and healthy addition to your pantry staples that will leave you wondering why you didn't make it sooner. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, transforming simple ingredients into a delicious and versatile condiment.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup white wine vinegar (apple cider vinegar works well too!)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red chili peppers (adjust to your spice preference – serrano, jalapeño, or even habanero work great!)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano (optional, adds a lovely herbal note)
Instructions:
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Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine the white wine vinegar, water, chopped chili peppers, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano (if using).
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Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the chili peppers to release their heat.
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Cool and Strain: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool completely. Once cooled, strain the vinegar through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the chili pepper solids and garlic pieces. This gives you a smooth, vibrant hot sauce vinegar.
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Bottle and Store: Transfer the strained hot sauce vinegar to a clean, sterilized bottle or jar. Store it in a cool, dark place. Your homemade hot sauce vinegar will keep for several weeks, if not months, in the refrigerator.
Tips and Variations:
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Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili peppers to control the heat intensity. For a milder vinegar, use less; for a fiery kick, add more! You can also experiment with different types of chili peppers for varying flavor profiles.
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Sweet and Spicy: Add a touch of sweetness by incorporating 1-2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup during the simmering process.
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Herbs and Spices: Get creative with herbs and spices! Experiment with adding a pinch of red pepper flakes, a few sprigs of thyme, or some finely chopped ginger for unique flavor combinations.
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Citrus Zest: A little zest from a lemon or lime adds a refreshing brightness. Add it along with the other ingredients.
Nutritional Information (per tablespoon, approximate):
- Calories: 5-7
- Carbohydrates: 1-2g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
Please note that this nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on the specific ingredients used.
This hot sauce vinegar recipe offers a quick and easy way to add a burst of flavor to your dishes. Whether you're a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is sure to become a kitchen staple. Its versatility makes it perfect for adding zest to salads, marinades, sauces, or even as a unique cocktail ingredient. Enjoy experimenting and creating your own signature blend!