Jalapeno Hot Sauce
There’s something special about the smell of fresh jalapeños sizzling away on my stovetop, filling the kitchen with an irresistible, spicy aroma. This Jalapeño Hot Sauce has become a staple in our household, and it all started because I was on a mission to elevate our family meals with a touch of homemade heat. One evening, after struggling to find the perfect condiment to pair with my husband’s grilled chicken wings, I decided to create my own. What I love most about this sauce is how customizable it is—add a pinch of sugar for sweetness, extra garlic for depth, or leave it chunky for a more rustic feel.
Every time I make this sauce, I can count on it to impress my loved ones. My kids love the mild version drizzled over scrambled eggs, while my spice-loving husband uses it to jazz up tacos and burgers. Even our neighbors ask for a bottle whenever they stop by for our backyard cookouts! Making this recipe brings joy and a sense of accomplishment, and it’s become our go-to flavor booster. Trust me, once you try this hot sauce, it’ll find a permanent place in your fridge!
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
How spicy is this Jalapeño Hot Sauce?
The heat level depends on the jalapeños you use. Removing the seeds and membranes will yield a milder sauce, while leaving them in creates a spicier kick. You can always adjust to your family’s tolerance level.
Can I use a different type of chili pepper?
Absolutely! Serrano peppers are a great alternative for an extra fiery version. Just keep in mind that different peppers bring unique flavors and heat levels.
How long does the hot sauce last?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this sauce can last up to two weeks. The vinegar acts as a natural preservative, so it stays fresh and flavorful.
Can I freeze this sauce?
Yes, you can freeze it in small, airtight containers for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge and give it a good stir before using.
What You Need to Make Jalapeño Hot Sauce
10 fresh jalapeño peppers (remove seeds and membranes for less heat)
1/2 cup white vinegar
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon sugar (optional, for a balanced flavor)
Special equipment: Blender or food processor, a small saucepan, and a glass bottle or jar for storing
How to Make Jalapeño Hot Sauce
Prepare the Jalapeños: Start by slicing the jalapeños into small pieces. If you want to reduce the heat, remove the seeds and membranes.
Cook the Peppers: Heat olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the sliced jalapeños and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
Add Vinegar and Simmer: Pour in the white vinegar and add salt and sugar (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes until the peppers soften.
Blend Until Smooth: Transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth, or leave it slightly chunky for a more rustic texture.
Cool and Bottle: Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to a glass bottle or jar. Store in the fridge and shake well before each use.
Tips for Making the Best Jalapeño Hot Sauce
Use gloves when handling jalapeños to prevent the oils from irritating your skin.
For a smokier flavor, try charring the jalapeños over an open flame before cooking.
If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a bit of water or extra vinegar.
Adding a small piece of carrot to the mix will mellow out the heat and add a touch of sweetness.
Feel free to experiment with additional spices like cumin or oregano for a unique flavor twist.
Reader Reviews
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Absolutely delicious and super easy to make! My family can’t get enough. I’ll never buy store-bought hot sauce again!” — Sarah J.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ “This was great, but next time, I’ll try it with serrano peppers for more heat. Still, a winner for our taco nights!” — Mike T.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Perfect for busy moms like me! It added just the right kick to my husband’s grilled burgers.” — Emily K.
⭐⭐⭐ “A bit too mild for me, but my kids loved it. I’ll leave more seeds in next time for extra spice!” — Laura B.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “This sauce was a hit at our cookout! Everyone wanted the recipe. I added a bit of honey for sweetness, and it was divine.” — Rick M.
Printable Recipe
Jalapeno Hot Sauce
Spicy, tangy, and bursting with flavor, this Jalapeño Hot Sauce is perfect for adding a fiery kick to any meal. Quick to make and customizable, it’s a must-have for spice lovers!
Ingredients
- 10 fresh jalapeño peppers (remove seeds and membranes for less heat)
- 1/2 cup white vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon sugar (optional, for a balanced flavor)
- Special equipment: Blender or food processor, a small saucepan, and a glass bottle or jar for storing
Instructions
- Prepare the Jalapeños: Start by slicing the jalapeños into small pieces. If you want to reduce the heat, remove the seeds and membranes.
- Cook the Peppers: Heat olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the sliced jalapeños and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Vinegar and Simmer: Pour in the white vinegar and add salt and sugar (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes until the peppers soften.
- Blend Until Smooth: Transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth, or leave it slightly chunky for a more rustic texture.
- Cool and Bottle: Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to a glass bottle or jar. Store in the fridge and shake well before each use.
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If You Enjoyed This Recipe, Please Share!
If this Jalapeño Hot Sauce brought some spice and flavor to your meals, I’d love for you to share it with your friends and family! Food is best enjoyed when shared, so snap a picture of your culinary creation and tag me on social media. Or better yet, make a batch for a loved one and spread the heat. It’s the little things like sharing a homemade recipe that make meals memorable!
