Description
This Easy Homemade Jalapeño Hot Sauce is a quick and versatile spicy condiment made from fresh jalapeño peppers, garlic, vinegar, and salt. Perfectly balanced with heat and tang, it can be customized by fermentation or cooking for varied flavor profiles. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s a vibrant addition to tacos, marinades, and any dish needing a spicy kick.
Ingredients
Scale
Primary Ingredients
- 1 lb jalapeño peppers (or other green hot peppers)
- 2 large garlic cloves, peeled
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 2–4 tablespoons white vinegar, to taste
- ¼ cup water
Instructions
- Prepare the peppers: Remove the stems from the jalapeños and slice them in half lengthwise. For a milder sauce, carefully scoop out the seeds and membranes using a spoon.
- Blend: Place the prepared jalapeños, peeled garlic cloves, salt, 2 tablespoons of white vinegar, and the water in a blender. Blend on high speed until completely smooth, which may take several minutes depending on your blender.
- Adjust the flavor: Taste the blended sauce and add more vinegar or salt according to your preference. Blend again briefly to combine the added ingredients evenly.
- Store or customize: Transfer the hot sauce into a clean jar and refrigerate. It can be stored for up to 3 months.
- For fermented flavor option: Leave the covered jar at room temperature for approximately 24 hours before refrigerating to develop a tangier, fermented taste.
- For milder sauce option: Pour the blended mixture into a saucepan and cook over medium heat while stirring constantly for about 2 minutes until the sauce color deepens slightly. Let it cool before storing.
Notes
- Removing seeds and membranes reduces heat for a milder sauce.
- Fermentation option adds complexity and tanginess to the flavor profile.
- Cooking the sauce briefly mellows and deepens its flavor.
- Use white vinegar for the classic tangy taste; apple cider vinegar can be substituted but may alter flavor slightly.
- Store refrigerated for up to 3 months for best flavor and safety.
- Adjust vinegar and salt to your personal taste preference before final storage.
