Portuguese-style Chilli Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold, spicy flavor with a tangy kick.
• Perfect as a marinade, sauce, or dip.
• Simple ingredients with powerful taste.
• Easy to adjust the level of heat.
• Adds depth and flavor to many dishes.
• Stores well for later use.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• red chili peppers
• garlic cloves
• olive oil
• white wine vinegar or lemon juice
• paprika
• salt
• black pepper
• oregano (optional)
• lemon zest (optional)

Directions

1. Wash the chili peppers and roughly chop them, removing some seeds if you prefer a milder sauce.
2. Place the chopped chilies in a blender or food processor.
3. Add the garlic cloves, olive oil, and vinegar or lemon juice.
4. Sprinkle in the paprika, salt, and black pepper.
5. Add oregano or lemon zest if using.
6. Blend the mixture until smooth or slightly textured, depending on your preference.
7. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning or acidity as needed.
8. Transfer the sauce to a clean jar or container.
9. Let the sauce sit for at least 30 minutes before using so the flavors can develop.

Servings and timing

Servings: About 1 cup of sauce

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Rest Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Add smoked paprika for a deeper smoky flavor.
• Include a small amount of roasted red pepper for sweetness.
• Use lime juice instead of vinegar for a citrus variation.
• Blend in a little honey for a sweet and spicy balance.
• Add a pinch of chili flakes for extra heat.

Storage/Reheating

Store the chilli sauce in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Before using, give the sauce a quick stir since the oil may separate slightly.

This sauce is typically served at room temperature and does not require reheating.

Freezing is possible for up to 2 months in a sealed container.

FAQs

What is Portuguese-style chilli sauce?

It is a spicy condiment inspired by piri-piri sauce, made with chili peppers, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil.

How spicy is this sauce?

The spice level depends on the type and amount of chili peppers used.

Can I use dried chilies instead of fresh?

Yes, but they should be soaked in warm water before blending.

What dishes pair well with this sauce?

It pairs well with grilled chicken, seafood, roasted vegetables, and sandwiches.

Can I use it as a marinade?

Yes, it works very well as a marinade for chicken, shrimp, or meats.

How can I make the sauce less spicy?

Remove the seeds from the chilies or mix in roasted red peppers.

Can I cook the sauce?

Some versions are gently heated, but this recipe works well as a raw blended sauce.

What type of vinegar works best?

White wine vinegar is commonly used for its mild acidity.

Can I add herbs to the sauce?

Yes, oregano, parsley, or thyme can add extra flavor.

Why should the sauce rest before serving?

Resting allows the ingredients to blend together and develop a deeper flavor.

Conclusion

Portuguese-style Chilli Sauce is a vibrant and versatile condiment that brings bold flavor and heat to a wide range of dishes. With its combination of chili peppers, garlic, and tangy acidity, it adds excitement to grilled foods, marinades, and dips. Easy to prepare and packed with character, this sauce is a flavorful addition to any kitchen.

Portuguese-style Chilli Sauce

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Portuguese-style Chilli Sauce is a bold and spicy condiment inspired by traditional piri-piri sauces, made with chili peppers, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar. This tangy and flavorful sauce works perfectly as a marinade, dipping sauce, or finishing drizzle.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 1 cup
• Category: Sauce
• Method: Blended
• Cuisine: Portuguese
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

• 8 red chili peppers, roughly chopped
• 4 garlic cloves
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons white wine vinegar or lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

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Instructions

1. Wash the chili peppers and roughly chop them, removing some seeds if a milder sauce is desired.
2. Add the chopped chilies to a blender or food processor.
3. Add the garlic cloves, olive oil, and white wine vinegar or lemon juice.
4. Sprinkle in the paprika, salt, and black pepper.
5. Add oregano and lemon zest if using.
6. Blend the mixture until smooth or slightly textured depending on preference.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning or acidity if needed.
8. Transfer the sauce to a clean jar or container.
9. Let the sauce rest for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to develop.

Notes

• Smoked paprika can be used for a deeper smoky flavor.
• Roasted red peppers can be added to reduce heat and add sweetness.
• A small amount of honey can balance the heat with sweetness.
• The sauce may naturally separate slightly; stir before using.
• Store refrigerated for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
• Calories: 85 kcal
• Sugar: 0 g
• Sodium: 95 mg
• Fat: 9 g
• Saturated Fat: 1.2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 1 g
• Fiber: 0.3 g
• Protein: 0 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg