Mildly Spicy Habanero Hot Sauce Recipe

A Balanced Blend of Sweet and Heat

This recipe offers a tamer take on traditional habanero hot sauce, perfect for those who want a flavorful condiment without overwhelming spiciness. By omitting serrano peppers and using domestic oranges and limes, we’ve created a balanced blend of sweet and spicy that’s sure to please.

Versatile Uses

This hot sauce is ideal for adding a kick to your breakfast dishes, using as a marinade for meats, or as a topping for your favorite snacks. Its unique flavor profile will have you hooked from the first taste.

Safely Preparing Habaneros

When handling habanero peppers, it’s crucial to take precautions to avoid skin irritation from the intense heat. Always wear latex gloves when removing seeds to ensure safe preparation.

The Aging Process

Although the hot sauce is ready to use after just 24 hours, its flavors will continue to meld together over the next 2-3 days. Store it in a container with a tight-fitting lid in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks to allow the flavors to fully develop.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup medium-diced carrots
• 7 habanero peppers, seeds and stems removed
• 4 medium garlic cloves, peeled
• 3/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (from about 4 medium oranges)
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (from about 4 medium limes)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions

1. Bring a medium saucepan of water to a boil over high heat. Add the carrots, habaneros, and garlic, and cook until the carrots are fork-tender, about 10 minutes. Drain and transfer to a blender.
2. Add the orange juice, lime juice, and salt to the blender. Blend until smooth, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
3. Transfer the hot sauce to a container with a tight-fitting lid and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Enjoy!