If you love a bit of heat in your meals, then this Smoked Habanero–Chili Lime Hot Sauce is just what you need. With a smoky flavor from the roasted habaneros and a zesty kick from lime, this sauce is perfect as a condiment or an ingredient in your favorite recipes.
Why Make This Recipe
Making your own hot sauce is not only easy but also rewarding. You can control the heat level, use fresh ingredients, and tailor the flavors to your liking. This Smoked Habanero–Chili Lime Hot Sauce is a great way to spice up any dish while showcasing bold flavors that will impress your family and friends.
How to Make Smoked Habanero–Chili Lime Hot Sauce
Ingredients:
- 6 smoked habanero peppers (seeds removed for less heat if desired)
- 1-2 fresh red chilies (such as Fresno or red jalapeño)
- Juice of 2 limes
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Directions:
- Fire-roast the habanero peppers until they are soft and smoky in flavor.
- In a blender, combine the smoked habanero peppers, fresh red chilies, lime juice, garlic, smoked paprika, apple cider vinegar, salt, and olive oil.
- Blend until smooth.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Store in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Enjoy as a condiment on your favorite dishes!
How to Serve Smoked Habanero–Chili Lime Hot Sauce
This hot sauce can spice up many dishes. Use it as a topping for tacos, burritos, grilled meats, or even scrambled eggs. You can also mix it into dips for an extra kick!
How to Store Smoked Habanero–Chili Lime Hot Sauce
To keep your hot sauce fresh, store it in a sealed jar in the refrigerator. It will stay good for up to 2 weeks. Make sure to give it a good shake before using, as the ingredients may settle.
Tips to Make Smoked Habanero–Chili Lime Hot Sauce
- If you want a milder sauce, make sure to remove all the seeds from the habanero peppers.
- Feel free to adjust the number of chilies based on how hot you want your sauce to be.
- You can experiment with different vinegars or add more lime juice for extra tang.
Variations
You can switch up the peppers by using different types, such as jalapeños or serranos, for a unique flavor. Try adding herbs like cilantro or oregano for a fresh twist!
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh habanero peppers instead of smoked ones?
Yes, you can use fresh habanero peppers if you don’t have smoked ones. Just note that the flavor will be different; you might want to add a bit of liquid smoke for a smoky taste.
2. How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water while blending or reduce the sauce by simmering it on low heat for a bit.
3. Is this sauce gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients in this hot sauce are gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
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