Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This sauce is packed with intense flavor and can be easily adjusted to suit your spice tolerance. It’s incredibly versatile and can elevate grilled meats, vegetables, and even sandwiches. With fresh ingredients and a quick preparation, it’s a homemade alternative that’s fresher and more customizable than store-bought versions.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
red chili peppers
garlic cloves
lemon juice or vinegar
olive oil
paprika
salt
black pepper
optional onion
optional herbs such as oregano
Directions
Wash and roughly chop the chili peppers, removing seeds if you prefer less heat.
Peel the garlic cloves and chop them coarsely.
If using onion, chop it into small pieces.
Place all ingredients into a blender or food processor.
Blend until smooth, adding olive oil gradually to achieve your desired consistency.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra lemon juice.
Transfer the sauce to a jar or container.
Let it rest for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before using.
Servings and timing
Servings: Makes about 1 cup
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Resting time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Variations
You can roast the peppers and garlic before blending for a deeper, smoky flavor. Add smoked paprika for extra depth or a bit of sugar to balance the heat. Different types of chili peppers can be used to adjust the spice level and flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Stir before use as separation may occur.
Do not freeze, as it may affect the texture.
This sauce is typically used cold or at room temperature and does not require reheating.
FAQs
How spicy is peri peri sauce?
It can range from mild to very hot depending on the type and amount of chili used.
Can I reduce the heat?
Yes, remove the seeds or use milder peppers.
What dishes go well with this sauce?
It pairs well with grilled chicken, seafood, vegetables, and sandwiches.
Can I cook with this sauce?
Yes, it works great as a marinade or cooking sauce.
Is this sauce vegan?
Yes, it is naturally vegan.
Can I use dried chili peppers?
Yes, but soak them in warm water before blending.
How long does it last?
Up to 1 week in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze peri peri sauce?
It’s not recommended as the texture may change.
What oil works best?
Olive oil is commonly used, but other neutral oils can work.
Can I add extra spices?
Yes, spices like cumin or coriander can add more depth.
Conclusion
Hot Peri Peri Sauce is a vibrant and versatile condiment that brings heat and flavor to a wide variety of dishes. Easy to make and customizable, it’s a great addition to your kitchen for adding a spicy kick whenever you need it.
PrintHot Peri Peri Sauce
Hot Peri Peri Sauce is a bold and spicy condiment made with chili peppers, garlic, citrus, and spices. It delivers a vibrant balance of heat and tang, perfect for marinades, dips, and drizzling.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 1 cup
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Blend
- Cuisine: African
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
- red chili peppers
- garlic cloves
- lemon juice or vinegar
- olive oil
- paprika
- salt
- black pepper
- optional onion
- optional herbs such as oregano
Instructions
- Wash and roughly chop chili peppers, removing seeds if less heat is desired.
- Peel and coarsely chop garlic cloves.
- If using onion, chop into small pieces.
- Add all ingredients to a blender or food processor.
- Blend until smooth, gradually adding olive oil to reach desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more lemon juice.
- Transfer to a jar or container.
- Let rest for at least 30 minutes before using to allow flavors to develop.
Notes
- Roast peppers and garlic for a smoky flavor variation.
- Remove seeds for a milder sauce.
- Add a pinch of sugar to balance acidity and heat.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Stir before use as separation may occur.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 70 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
