Fresh Jalapeño Hot Sauce (Smooth, Tangy & Spicy)
Ingredients:
10–12 fresh jalapeño peppers (stems removed)
3 cloves garlic
½ small onion (roughly chopped)
¾ cup white vinegar
½ cup water
1 tablespoon lime juice (fresh is best)
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon sugar (optional, balances acidity)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
Prep the peppers
Wash the jalapeños. For a milder sauce, remove some or all of the seeds. For more heat, keep them in.
Sauté for flavor
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
Add jalapeños, garlic, and onion. Cook for 4–5 minutes until slightly softened and fragrant.
Simmer
Pour in the vinegar and water. Bring to a light simmer and cook for 8–10 minutes until everything is very soft.
Blend until smooth
Carefully transfer the mixture to a blender.
Add lime juice, salt, and sugar. Blend until smooth and silky.
Adjust consistency
If the sauce is too thick, add a little more water or vinegar and blend again.
Strain (optional)
For an extra smooth texture, strain the sauce through a fine sieve.
Cool and store
Let it cool completely, then pour into a clean glass bottle or jar. Store in the refrigerator.
Storage:
Keeps for 2–3 weeks in the fridge
Flavor improves after a day or two
Tips & Variations:
Add cilantro for a fresh twist
Swap vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a slightly sweeter taste
Mix in a serrano pepper if you want more heat
Roast the peppers instead of sautéing for a smoky flavor
