Spice up your life with this vibrant and easy-to-make red jalapeño hot sauce! This recipe is perfect for adding a delicious kick to your favorite dishes, from tacos and eggs to grilled chicken and even popcorn. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe provides a fantastic way to create a flavorful condiment from scratch. It's a quick dinner idea solution, making a healthy meal even more exciting.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound red jalapeños (about 10-12), stemmed
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1/2 medium red onion, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Safety First: Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling the peppers and before touching your face.
Prepare the Ingredients:
- Roughly chop the jalapeños, garlic, and red onion. Don't worry about making them perfectly uniform; a rustic chop works just fine.
Cook the Sauce:
- Combine all ingredients in a blender or food processor. Blend until completely smooth. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides a few times to ensure everything is well incorporated.
Simmer for Flavor:
- Pour the blended mixture into a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
Reduce and Refine:
- Simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded. This slow simmering process develops the complexity of this delicious dish. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want to add a pinch more salt or lime juice, depending on your preference.
Cool and Bottle:
- Let the hot sauce cool completely before transferring it to sterilized jars or bottles. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 months. The flavor will actually deepen over time!
Tips for the Best Homemade Hot Sauce:
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder sauce, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños before blending. For extra heat, add a serrano or habanero pepper.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to experiment with other ingredients like carrots, cilantro, or different types of vinegar. You can create your signature hot sauce recipe.
- Sterilize Your Jars: Properly sterilizing your jars is crucial for preserving your homemade hot sauce. Wash the jars and lids in hot, soapy water, then rinse and sterilize them by boiling them in water for 10 minutes.
Variations:
- Roasted Jalapeño Hot Sauce: Roast the jalapeños in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes before blending for a smoky flavor. This is an excellent way to elevate the flavors even further.
- Mango Habanero Hot Sauce: Add a cup of diced mango for a sweet and spicy twist.
- Garlic Lover's Hot Sauce: Add more garlic for a stronger garlic flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 20
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Protein: 0g
This red jalapeño hot sauce is a fantastic addition to any meal. It's quick, easy, delicious, and perfect for adding some homemade spice to your daily cooking. Enjoy!