Description
This Zesty Banana Pepper Hot Sauce offers a vibrant and tangy flavor with a perfect balance of heat and sweetness. Made from fresh banana peppers, garlic, white vinegar, and brown sugar, it’s a versatile condiment that can spice up any dish. Ready in just 30 minutes, this homemade hot sauce is easy to prepare and can be stored in the fridge for lasting freshness.
Ingredients
Scale
Peppers and Aromatics
- 10 banana peppers (about 1 cup chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Liquids and Seasonings
- 1 cup white vinegar
- ½ cup water
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing garlic)
Instructions
- Prepare the Peppers: Wash the banana peppers under cool running water to remove any dirt. Remove the stems and seeds from the peppers if you prefer a milder heat in the sauce.
- Sauté the Garlic: In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, taking care not to burn it.
- Add Ingredients to the Saucepan: Add the chopped banana peppers, white vinegar, water, salt, and brown sugar to the saucepan. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the Mixture: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the banana peppers are tender and flavors meld together.
- Blend the Sauce: Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then transfer it to a blender. Blend until the sauce reaches your desired consistency—smooth or slightly chunky.
- Bottle and Store: Pour the blended sauce into sterilized bottles or jars. Seal tightly and store in the refrigerator. The sauce keeps well for several weeks.
Notes
- Removing the seeds from the banana peppers reduces the heat level.
- Adjust the amount of brown sugar if you prefer a sweeter or less sweet hot sauce.
- Sterilizing bottles properly helps prolong shelf life and maintain freshness.
- This sauce can be used as a marinade, condiment, or added to soups and stews for extra heat.
