Fresno Pepper Hot Sauce
Fresno Pepper Hot Sauce is a spicy condiment made primarily from Fresno chili peppers, which are known for their mild to medium heat level and slightly sweet flavor. Fresno Pepper Hot Sauce is often used to enhance the taste of dishes such as tacos, grilled meats, eggs, and more, adding a vibrant heat without overwhelming the palate. Its bright red color and moderate spice make it a versatile choice for heat enthusiasts.
Equipment
- A medium-sized saucepan
- Blender or food processor
- Fine mesh sieve (optional, for straining)
- Glass bottle or jar for storage
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 12 fresh Fresno chili peppers
- 4 garlic cloves peeled
- 1 medium red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup white vinegar
- 1/2 cup water or as needed
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika optional, for a smoky flavor
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Cut the peppers into chunks, and if you want to reduce the heat a bit, you can remove the seeds from the Fresno peppers. Peel and roughly chop the garlic cloves.
- Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped Fresno peppers, red bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté everything for about 5-7 minutes until the peppers soften and the garlic becomes fragrant.
- Next, pour in white vinegar and water. You can adjust the amount of water based on how thick or thin you want the sauce to be. Stir in the honey (or sugar), sea salt, and smoked paprika if you want that extra smoky flavor. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Once everything has simmered and the peppers are nice and soft, transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, usually add a little extra water to reach the desired consistency.
- For a smoother, more refined texture, you can strain the sauce using a fine mesh sieve. This step is optional but highly recommended if you prefer a silky-smooth hot sauce.
- Pour the hot sauce into a sterilized glass bottle or jar. Let it cool completely before sealing it and storing it in the refrigerator. This sauce can last for up to a month when properly stored.
Notes
For the best flavor, choose vibrant red Fresno peppers that are firm and have smooth skin. Avoid any with soft spots or blemishes, as they may affect the freshness of your sauce.