SERRANO PEPPER HOT SAUCE RECIPE RECIPES

Steps:

• Cut the green tops off all the peppers. Discard tops and set peppers aside.
• Slightly smash each clove of garlic just enough that the paper loosens; remove the paper and discard it.
• In a medium, non-reactive (i.e. stainless steel, ceramic, or glass) pot, add the prepared peppers and garlic cloves. Pour in the vinegar and lime juice then add the salt, paprika, and bay leaf. Stir together to mix in the salt and paprika.
• Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and allow to simmer for 20 to 30 minutes or until the peppers are soft.
• Remove from the heat and add to a food processor or heat safe blender (no need to remove bay leaf). Pulse until smooth and liquidy (be CAREFUL--it is HOT), adding more vinegar if necessary to make it more liquid.
• Smoosh through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl and discard any seeds and large chunks left in the sieve.
• Refrigerate in an airtight container for at least one week prior to using.

Steps:

• Give the jalapenos a good rinse and de-stem them.  Be sure to wash your hands after handling them. More info on handling hot chiles.
• Saute a roughly chopped 1/2 onion and 2 whole, peeled garlic cloves in a glug of oil over medium heat.
• Once the onion is browning you can add 1 teaspoon Mexican oregano, some freshly cracked black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon cumin (optional). Briefly cook until fragrant and then add: the de-stemmed jalapenos, 3/4 cup white vinegar, 1/2 cup water, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Bring to a simmer and then add everything to a blender.
• Add 8-10 sprigs cilantro and the juice of 1 lime to the blender. Combine well or to your desired consistency. I usually leave it a bit chunky but you can always blend it thinner.
• Add mixture to three 5 oz. bottles or a small Mason jar. Store in the fridge where it will keep for at least a month.