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+ servings
habanero

Habanero Recipe

Rachid Yousfi
If you’re a fan of bold flavors and fiery heat, this habanero sauce recipe will quickly become your new kitchen staple—perfect for adding a zesty kick to a wide variety of dishes, from tacos to grilled meats.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine MEXICO
Servings 8 servings
Calories 15 kcal

Equipment

  • Blender or food processor
  • Saucepan
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Airtight jar or bottle for storage

Ingredients
  

  • 12 habanero peppers
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • ¼ cup white vinegar
  • ¼ cup water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 lime Juice
  • 1 tablespoon honey

Instructions
 

  • Start by carefully cutting the habanero peppers in half and removing the seeds (for less heat, remove the membrane as well).
  • In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic cloves and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Add the habaneros to the pan and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Remove the peppers and garlic from heat. Transfer to a blender or food processor.
  • Add the vinegar, water, salt, sugar, cumin, paprika, and lime juice to the blender. Blend everything until smooth.
  • Taste and adjust the seasoning. If you like it sweeter, add honey or a few cubes of mango for a tropical twist.
  • Once fully blended, pour the sauce into an airtight jar or bottle and store in the fridge.
  • Allow the sauce to sit for a few hours (or overnight) to let the flavors meld before using.

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Notes

  • Adjust the heat: If you're sensitive to spice, start by removing the seeds and membranes from the habaneros, as these contain the majority of the heat. You can also balance the spice by adding more sugar or fruit, like mango, to mellow it out.
  • Roasting the peppers: If you want a deeper, smokier flavor, consider roasting the habaneros and garlic in the oven before blending. This adds an extra layer of richness to the sauce.
  • Use fresh ingredients: Always opt for fresh habaneros and garlic for the best flavor. Dried peppers will yield a different result, so fresh is key for that bright, punchy taste.
  • Blend it well: For the smoothest texture, make sure to blend the sauce thoroughly. A food processor or high-speed blender is ideal.
  • Let it sit: Allow the sauce to sit for a few hours (or even overnight) to let the flavors develop. The longer it sits, the better the heat and tang will balance out.

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
Habanero Recipe
Serving Size
 
15 g
Amount per Serving
Calories
15
% Daily Value*
Fat
 
0.2
g
0
%
Monounsaturated Fat
 
0.1
g
Sodium
 
50
mg
2
%
Potassium
 
50
mg
1
%
Carbohydrates
 
3
g
1
%
Fiber
 
1
g
4
%
Sugar
 
1
g
1
%
Vitamin A
 
400
IU
8
%
Vitamin C
 
15
mg
18
%
Calcium
 
10
mg
1
%
Iron
 
0.2
mg
1
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Keyword Habanero
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