Name: Pineapple Habanero Hot Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh pineapple, chopped (or 1 can pineapple chunks in juice, drained); 4–6 habanero peppers, stemmed and seeded (adjust for desired heat); ½ cup white vinegar or apple cider vinegar; 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice; 1 tablespoon honey or sugar (optional); ½ teaspoon salt; 2 cloves garlic (optional); 1 small onion, chopped (optional); 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing onion and garlic); Optional add-ins: ½ teaspoon cumin, ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika, ¼ cup fresh cilantro

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sweet and spicy flavor combination that’s fresh and vibrant
Versatile condiment great for a variety of dishes
Easy to make with simple, natural ingredients
Customizable heat level by adjusting habaneros
Keeps well in the fridge for months, making it handy anytime

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups fresh pineapple, chopped (or 1 can pineapple chunks in juice, drained)
4–6 habanero peppers, stemmed and seeded (adjust for desired heat)
½ cup white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon honey or sugar (optional)
½ teaspoon salt
2 cloves garlic (optional)
1 small onion, chopped (optional)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing onion and garlic)
Optional add-ins:
½ teaspoon cumin
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
¼ cup fresh cilantro

Directions

Peel and chop pineapple. Put on gloves, then stem and seed habaneros. Chop onion and garlic if using.
In a saucepan over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add chopped onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until soft. Add garlic and sauté 1 minute until fragrant.
In a blender, combine pineapple, habaneros, vinegar, lime juice, honey, salt, and sautéed onion and garlic. Add optional spices if using. Blend until smooth.
Pour mixture back into the saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Add water or vinegar if needed.
Carefully taste the sauce. Adjust sweetness, heat, or tanginess as desired. Blend briefly again if you want a smoother texture.
Let sauce cool for 10–15 minutes. Pour into sterilized jars or bottles.
Store in the fridge for up to 3 months.

Servings and Timing

Makes about 2 cups
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add mango or peach chunks for extra fruity sweetness.
Use smoked habaneros or chipotle peppers for smoky flavor.
Stir in fresh herbs like basil or mint for unique twists.
Include a splash of orange juice for citrusy brightness.
Adjust the number of peppers for mild to intense heat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep sauce refrigerated in sterilized containers for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Use directly as a condiment; no reheating needed.

FAQs

How spicy is this sauce?

Habaneros are very hot; adjust quantity to your heat tolerance.

Can I use dried peppers instead?

Fresh peppers are best, but dried habaneros rehydrated can work.

Is this sauce gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I freeze the hot sauce?

Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 6 months.

What vinegar is best?

White or apple cider vinegar both work well.

How long does the flavor last?

Flavor improves with time but is best consumed within 3 months.

Can I omit the onion and garlic?

Yes, but they add depth to the flavor.

What dishes pair well with this sauce?

Tacos, grilled chicken, shrimp, roasted vegetables, and eggs.

Can I make this less spicy?

Remove seeds and membranes from habaneros or use fewer peppers.

How do I sterilize jars?

Wash jars in hot soapy water and boil in water for 10 minutes before filling.

Conclusion

Pineapple Habanero Hot Sauce is a vibrant, flavorful, and fiery condiment that elevates any meal with a perfect sweet-heat balance. Easy to prepare and versatile, it’s a must-have for spice lovers looking to add a tropical kick to their dishes.