Pineapple Habanero Hot Sauce (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Main Ingredients
01 -
2 cups fresh pineapple, chopped (or 1 can of pineapple chunks in juice, drained)
02 -
4-6 habanero peppers, stemmed and seeded
03 -
½ cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
04 -
2 tablespoons lime juice, freshly squeezed
05 -
1 tablespoon honey or sugar (optional for sweetness)
06 -
½ teaspoon salt
07 -
2 cloves garlic (optional)
08 -
1 small onion, chopped (optional)
09 -
1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
→ Optional Add-Ins
10 -
½ teaspoon cumin (for smoky flavor)
11 -
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
12 -
¼ cup fresh cilantro
# Instructions:
01 -
Prepare your ingredients. For fresh pineapple, peel, core, and chop into small pieces. For canned pineapple, drain the juice. Stem and seed the habanero peppers (wear gloves to protect your hands). Chop any other ingredients like onion, garlic, or cilantro.
02 -
If using onion and garlic, heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
03 -
In a high-speed blender or food processor, combine the pineapple, habanero peppers, sautéed onion and garlic (if using), vinegar, lime juice, honey or sugar, and salt. Add any optional spices. Blend on high until smooth and well-combined.
04 -
Pour the blended mixture into a saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened and flavors have melded. Avoid boiling as this can affect the flavor.
05 -
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed. For sweeter sauce, add more honey or sugar. For more heat, blend in additional habanero or some seeds. If too spicy, balance with more pineapple or vinegar.
06 -
Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly. Pour into sterilized glass bottles or jars using a funnel. Seal containers and store in the refrigerator. The sauce will develop more flavor as it sits and can be stored for up to 3 months.
# Notes:
01 -
Start with fewer habaneros and add more until you reach your desired heat level - you can always add more heat but can't take it away once added.
02 -
For a thicker sauce, simmer longer; for a thinner sauce, add more vinegar or water.
03 -
This sweet and spicy sauce pairs well with grilled meats, tacos, eggs, and rice dishes.