Easy Chili Sauce
A vibrant, tangy chili sauce with rich tomato flavor and subtle spices, perfect for adding a zesty kick to grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a dip. Its balanced sweetness and heat appeal to spice lovers and those seeking homemade condiments with bold, fresh flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together all ingredients in a large kettle.
- Cook to boiling over medium-high heat.
- Lower heat and simmer until desired thickness, about 2 to 3 hours.
- Fill sterilized jars within 1/2-inch of the top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother sauce, consider blending the cooked mixture before canning. You can substitute white sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a spicier kick, add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes. Adjust the sweetness by varying the brown and white sugar amounts to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
This easy chili sauce makes a fantastic condiment for burgers, hot dogs, or grilled meats. It also pairs beautifully with 3-Day Cole Slaw for a complete meal. You can serve it alongside tortilla chips or use it as a marinade for chicken. Experiment by drizzling it over roasted vegetables for a zesty twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chili sauce in sterilized jars and refrigerate for up to 3 weeks. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in airtight containers for up to 6 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Chili Sauce contains roughly 206 calories, with 2g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (132% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 848mg per serving (37% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes if fresh ones are not available. However, ensure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture. Keep in mind that the flavor may differ slightly, so adjust seasonings as needed.
How can I make this sauce spicier?
To increase the heat level, add chopped fresh jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper during cooking. You can also include a splash of hot sauce to taste at the end for an extra kick.
Is it necessary to sterilize jars before canning?
Yes, sterilizing jars is crucial for food safety. It prevents bacteria from contaminating your sauce. You can sterilize jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes or running them through a hot cycle in the dishwasher.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).