If you love the fiery and smoky flavors of chilli sauce, then you're in for a treat with this homemade smoked chilli sauce recipe. Made with a combination of smoky chillies, spices, and a touch of sweetness, this sauce is perfect for adding a kick to your favorite dishes. In this article, we'll explore how to make this delicious sauce and how to properly preserve it for long-lasting enjoyment.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of smoked chillies (such as chipotle or ancho)
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar
Instructions:
Start by preparing the smoked chillies. Remove the stems and seeds, then roughly chop them.
In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.
Add the chopped smoked chillies to the pan, along with the cumin, paprika, and salt. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Pour in the apple cider vinegar and brown sugar. Stir again to ensure everything is mixed thoroughly.
Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chillies have softened.
Remove the pan from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
Transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier sauce, you can pulse the mixture to your desired consistency.
Once blended, taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings if necessary. You can add more salt, sugar, or spices according to your preference.
Pour the sauce into sterilized bottles or jars, leaving a little space at the top for expansion.
Seal the bottles or jars tightly and store them in a cool, dark place. The sauce will continue to develop its flavors over time.
How to Add Liquid Smoke to Hot Sauce:
Adding liquid smoke to hot sauce can give it that extra smoky flavor without the need for smoked chillies. To do this, simply substitute a portion of the vinegar in the recipe with liquid smoke. Start by adding a small amount and adjust to your desired level of smokiness. Remember to taste as you go to ensure the balance of flavors is to your liking.
How to Preserve Homemade Chilli Sauce:
To preserve your homemade chilli sauce and extend its shelf life, it's important to follow proper canning techniques. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Sterilize the Jars:
Before filling the jars with the sauce, make sure they are thoroughly cleaned and sterilized. You can do this by placing the jars and lids in a large pot of boiling water for 10 minutes. Remove them using tongs and let them air dry.
Fill the Jars:
Fill the sterilized jars with the cooled chilli sauce, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top. This space allows for expansion during the canning process.
Process the Jars:
Place the filled jars in a large pot of boiling water, making sure they are fully submerged. Process the jars in the boiling water bath for 10-15 minutes, depending on your altitude. This process helps create a vacuum seal, preventing bacteria and spoilage.
Cool and Store:
After processing, carefully remove the jars from the pot using tongs and place them on a towel-lined countertop. Allow them to cool completely. As the jars cool, you may hear a popping sound, indicating that the jars are properly sealed. Store the cooled jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
:
Can I use different types of chillies?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of smoked chillies to achieve varying levels of heat and smokiness. Just remember to adjust the quantities accordingly to maintain the desired flavor balance.
How long does the sauce need to cool before blending?
You'll want to let the mixture cool for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a blender or food processor. This allows the ingredients to cool slightly and makes blending safer and more efficient.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?
Yes, you can adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less brown sugar. Start with the recommended amount and taste the sauce before bottling. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a little more sugar. If you prefer it less sweet, reduce the amount accordingly.
How long does the sauce need to mature?
The flavors of the smoked chilli sauce will continue to develop and meld together over time. It's recommended to let the sauce mature for at least a week before consuming. However, you can enjoy it immediately if you can't resist the temptation!
Now that you have the recipe and preservation tips, you can enjoy the smoky heat of this homemade smoked chilli sauce in your favorite dishes. Whether you use it as a condiment, marinade, or ingredient in your cooking, this sauce is sure to add a delicious kick to any meal. Give it a try and elevate your culinary creations!
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