This homemade Jalapeno Hot Sauce is perfect for those who love a flavorful, spicy kick. With fresh jalapenos, garlic, and lime, this sauce is an easy way to bring bold heat to your favorite dishes.
INGREDIENTS
- Jalapeno Peppers: 15 fresh jalapenos, stems removed to bring the base of the heat and flavor.
- Onion: 1/2 cup, chopped, adding a savory depth to the sauce.
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced, for a robust, aromatic layer of flavor.
- White Vinegar: 1 cup, adding acidity to balance the heat and act as a natural preservative.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon, enhancing all flavors in the sauce.
- Cumin: 1/2 teaspoon, for a subtle earthiness.
- Water: 1/2 cup, used to simmer and soften the ingredients.
- Honey (optional): 1 tablespoon, for a hint of sweetness to mellow the spice.
- Lime Juice: Juice of 1 lime, adding tanginess to brighten the flavors.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1: Heat the Ingredients
- Add the jalapeno peppers, chopped onion, and minced garlic to a pot over medium heat. Pour in the water and vinegar to start the cooking process.
- Step 2: Simmer
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows the peppers to soften and the flavors to blend together.
- Step 3: Cool Down
- Remove the pot from the heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly. This will help prevent any splattering during the blending process.
- Step 4: Blend
- Transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor. Add the salt, cumin, honey (if using), and lime juice. Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Step 5: Adjust Consistency and Flavor
- If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit more water until you reach the desired consistency. Taste and adjust the flavor, adding extra lime juice for tang or honey for sweetness, as needed.
- Step 6: Strain (Optional)
- If you prefer a smoother sauce, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any larger pieces. Skip this step if you enjoy a chunkier texture.
- Step 7: Bottle and Refrigerate
- Pour the finished sauce into sterilized bottles or jars. Store in the refrigerator for several weeks, where the flavors will continue to develop over time.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Use this sauce as a topping for tacos, burritos, or nachos to add a spicy kick.
- Drizzle over grilled meats or seafood for extra flavor and heat.
- Store the sauce in an airtight, sterilized bottle in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 weeks.
- As the sauce sits, its flavors will deepen, and the heat may intensify over time.
Helpful Notes
- Control the Heat: Adjust the spice level by using fewer jalapenos or removing the seeds for a milder sauce.
- Alternative Sweetener: Substitute honey with agave syrup or sugar for a vegan or lower-sugar option.
- Consistency Preference: Adjust water amounts to control the thickness, based on whether you prefer a thicker or thinner sauce.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Rick Bayless: “Use freshly squeezed lime juice in your sauces for the best flavor, especially in spicy ones. It adds brightness and balance.”
- Chef Aaron Sanchez: “For the perfect hot sauce, balance is key—acidity, heat, and sweetness should be adjusted to taste.”