Description
This Zesty Banana Pepper Hot Sauce is a vibrant, tangy condiment made from fresh banana peppers, garlic, and a punch of white vinegar. Perfectly balanced with a hint of brown sugar and salt, this hot sauce brings a mild heat and bright flavor to any dish. Easy to prepare on the stovetop, it’s ideal for spicing up sandwiches, tacos, grilled meats, or veggies.
Ingredients
Scale
Primary Ingredients
- 10 banana peppers (about 1 cup chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- ½ cup water
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing garlic)
Instructions
- Prepare the Peppers: Wash the banana peppers thoroughly under cool running water. Remove the stems and seeds to reduce the heat level, then chop the peppers into smaller pieces.
- Sauté Garlic: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add Ingredients: Add the chopped banana peppers, white vinegar, water, salt, and brown sugar to the saucepan. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the banana peppers are tender and the flavors meld together.
- Blend the Sauce: Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly. Transfer it to a blender and blend until smooth or leave it a bit chunky if you prefer more texture.
- Store: Pour the blended hot sauce into sterilized bottles or jars. Seal tightly and refrigerate. The sauce will keep well in the fridge for several weeks, allowing the flavors to deepen over time.
Notes
- Removing seeds reduces the heat, but you can include some for spicier sauce.
- Adjust vinegar and sugar amounts to balance the tartness and sweetness to your taste.
- Use sterilized containers to maximize shelf life and avoid contamination.
- This sauce pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, tacos, and roasted vegetables.
