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Master Hot Sauce Recipe

This master hot sauce recipe is the ultimate way to preserve the fiery heat of seasonal chillies. By using a simple fermentation technique, you can transform fresh jalapeños, habaneros, or serranos into a punchy, complex condiment that rivals any shop-bought bottle. The process allows the natural sugars in the peppers to develop a sophisticated savoury profile, balanced perfectly by the sharp tang of distilled white vinegar.

As a versatile vegan staple, this homemade sauce is an excellent way to customise your heat levels to suit your palate. Whether you prefer a mild kick for your morning eggs or a searing heat for Mexican-inspired dishes, this fermented blend is a rewarding project for any home cook. Keep a bottle in the fridge to bring a vibrant, zesty lift to your favourite plant-based meals.

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Ingredients for Master Hot Sauce Recipe

  • 450g stemmed fresh chillies (such as jalapeño, serrano, Fresno, or habanero

  • use one variety or mix and match)

  • 2 tablespoons kosher salt

  • 350ml distilled white vinegar

How to make Master Hot Sauce Recipe

Pulse chillies and kosher salt in a food processor until a coarse purée forms. Transfer to a 1-quart glass jar, loosely screw on lid, and let stand at room temperature for 12 hours to ferment slightly.

Stir in vinegar and loosely screw on lid. Let chilli mixture stand at room temperature for at least 1 day and up to 7 days. (Taste it daily; the longer it sits, the deeper the flavour becomes.)

Purée mixture in a food processor or blender until smooth, about 1 minute. Place a fine-mesh sieve inside a funnel. Strain mixture through sieve into a clean glass bottle. (Hot sauce will become thinner and may separate after you strain it; shake vigorously before each use.) DO AHEAD: Can be made up to 4 months ahead. Keep refrigerated.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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