Tired of bland store-bought hot sauces? Craving a fiery kick with a depth of flavor that only homemade goodness can provide? Then get ready to embark on a culinary adventure with this incredibly easy and incredibly delicious Serrano pepper hot sauce recipe! This recipe is perfect for beginner cooks looking for easy recipes and seasoned chefs alike wanting to add a homemade touch to their dishes. It's the ultimate addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. This isn't just hot sauce; it's a flavor explosion waiting to happen.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound serrano peppers (adjust to your spice preference; wear gloves!)
- 2 cups white vinegar (5% acidity)
- 1 cup water
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Peppers
Wash the serrano peppers thoroughly. Remember, serrano peppers pack a serious punch, so wearing food-safe gloves is highly recommended while handling them. Remove the stems and roughly chop the peppers. You can leave the seeds in for extra heat, or remove some for a milder sauce – the choice is yours!
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large saucepan, combine the chopped serrano peppers, vinegar, water, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper (if using). Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the peppers are very soft. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This simmering process allows the flavors to meld and develop.
Step 4: Blend the Sauce
Carefully remove the saucepan from the heat and allow it to cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, carefully transfer the mixture to a blender (or use an immersion blender directly in the pot). Blend until completely smooth.
Step 5: Strain (Optional)
For a smoother, seed-free sauce, strain the blended mixture through a fine-mesh sieve. This step is optional, but many prefer a smoother texture.
Step 6: Bottle and Store
Pour the hot sauce into sterilized bottles or jars. Make sure to leave a little headspace at the top. Seal tightly and store in a cool, dark place. Your homemade serrano hot sauce will continue to develop flavor over time.
Cooking Tips & Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the number of serrano peppers according to your preference. For a milder sauce, remove some of the seeds and membranes. For extra heat, add a few habaneros or jalapeños.
- Flavor Boost: Experiment with adding other ingredients like a pinch of sugar for balance, a splash of lime juice for brightness, or a few cloves of fresh garlic for a stronger garlic flavor. Dried oregano or cumin also add interesting dimensions.
- Make it a Gift: This homemade hot sauce makes a fantastic and unique gift for friends and family who appreciate delicious, homemade treats.
Nutritional Information (per serving – approximate, based on 1/4 cup serving):
- Calories: Approximately 20
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 0g
- Sodium: High (due to salt)
This serrano hot sauce recipe is a testament to the power of simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary. From healthy meals to quick dinner ideas, this versatile condiment adds a burst of flavor to everything from eggs and tacos to soups and stews. Enjoy the fiery deliciousness!