If you’re a fan of spicy foods, then you’re probably familiar with the fiery kick of jalapeno peppers. These peppers are commonly used to add heat and flavor to various dishes, and one popular way to enjoy their spiciness is through hot sauce. While there are numerous store-bought options available, making your own canned jalapeno hot sauce not only allows you to customize the flavor to your liking but also ensures that you have a ready supply whenever you need it. In this article, we will share an easy canned jalapeno hot sauce recipe that you can prepare at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds of fresh jalapeno peppers
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of distilled white vinegar
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1 teaspoon of sugar
– 1 teaspoon of cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon of oregano
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
– 1 teaspoon of black pepper
Instructions:
1. Start by washing and drying the jalapeno peppers. Remove the stems and roughly chop them into smaller pieces. For a milder hot sauce, you can remove the seeds and membranes of the peppers.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped jalapenos, minced garlic, vinegar, salt, sugar, cumin powder, oregano, paprika, and black pepper. Blend until you achieve a smooth consistency.
3. Pour the mixture into a large saucepan and bring it to a boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. While the sauce is simmering, prepare your canning jars by washing them thoroughly with hot, soapy water. Rinse well and sterilize them by placing them in a pot of boiling water for 10 minutes.
5. Carefully remove the jars from the boiling water and let them cool slightly. Pour the hot sauce into the jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace. Use a canning funnel for easier pouring and to avoid any spills.
6. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth to remove any sauce residue. Place the lids on the jars and tighten the bands until they are fingertip tight.
7. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 15 minutes. Make sure the jars are fully submerged in the boiling water and that there is at least 1 inch of water covering them.
8. After processing, carefully remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool on a clean towel or wire rack. As they cool, you may hear a popping sound, indicating that the jars have sealed properly.
9. Once the jars have cooled completely, check the seals by pressing down on the lids. If the lids do not flex or move, the jars are sealed. If any jars did not seal properly, refrigerate and consume within a few weeks.
10. Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place for at least a week before opening to allow the flavors to meld together. The hot sauce can be stored for up to a year.
Now, let’s move on to some commonly asked questions about canned jalapeno hot sauce:
Q1. How long does the hot sauce need to ferment?
A1. The hot sauce does not require fermentation. It can be consumed immediately, but it’s recommended to let the flavors meld together for at least a week before opening.
Q2. Can I adjust the spiciness of the hot sauce?
A2. Yes, you can adjust the spiciness by removing the seeds and membranes of the jalapeno peppers for a milder flavor or keeping them intact for a hotter sauce.
Q3. Can I use other types of chili peppers?
A3. Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different chili peppers to create your own unique flavor profile.
Q4. How should I store the opened jars?
A4. Once opened, store the jars in the refrigerator and consume within a few months.
Q5. Can I use dried jalapeno peppers?
A5. While fresh jalapenos are recommended for this recipe, you can use dried peppers if fresh ones are not available. Rehydrate the dried peppers before blending.
Q6. Can I reuse old jars for canning?
A6. It is best to use new canning jars for proper sealing and to avoid any potential contamination.
Q7. Can I add other spices or ingredients to the recipe?
A7. Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with additional spices, such as coriander or lime juice, to customize the flavor to your liking.
By following this easy canned jalapeno hot sauce recipe, you can enjoy the fiery goodness of homemade hot sauce whenever you desire. Experiment with different peppers and spices to create a unique flavor that suits your taste buds. Happy canning!