Linda'S Refrigerator Hot Sauce
Linda's Refrigerator Hot Sauce offers a vibrant, tangy flavor with a spicy kick, perfect for elevating tacos, eggs, or grilled meats. Made with fresh tomatoes, serrano peppers, garlic salt, and vinegar, this homemade hot sauce is quick to prepare and ideal for those who enjoy bold, customizable condiments stored in the fridge.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain all but one can of the tomatoes.
- Put the tomatoes in a blender, one can at a time.
- Blend briefly until the tomatoes are finely chopped but not mushy.
- Pour the blended tomatoes into a large bowl.
- Add the chopped onions to the tomato mixture.
- Add the serrano peppers to the tomato mixture.
- Add the jalapenos to the mixture.
- Add the remaining ingredients: oil, vinegar, tomato, pepper, garlic salt, clemente, salt.
- Stir all ingredients until well mixed.
- Spoon the hot sauce into containers, approximately 7 to 8 pint jars.
- Refrigerate the hot sauce. This is not a canned recipe.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, increase the amount of serrano peppers or add diced jalapenos to the mix. You can substitute the oil with a flavored variety, like olive or avocado oil, for added depth. If fresh tomatoes are unavailable, canned tomatoes work well too. Adjust the garlic salt to taste and consider adding spices like cumin or smoked paprika for additional flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This hot sauce is perfect for spicing up tacos, grilled meats, or even as a zesty addition to Clair'S French Vegetable Beef Soup. Drizzle it over eggs or use it as a dipping sauce for snacks. Pair it with chips or fresh veggies for a vibrant appetizer. It also complements mild dishes like Birthday Cake, adding a surprising twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store the hot sauce in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks. If you notice separation, simply shake or stir before using. For longer storage, you can freeze small portions in ice cube trays, then transfer to a zip-top bag. When ready to use, thaw in the fridge overnight or add directly to dishes while cooking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Linda'S Refrigerator Hot Sauce contains roughly 17 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 490mg per serving (21% 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 make this hot sauce less spicy?
Yes, to reduce the heat, use fewer serrano peppers or substitute them with milder varieties like bell peppers. You can also remove the seeds from the peppers before blending, as they contain much of the heat. Adjusting the balance of tomatoes and other ingredients will help create a flavor profile that suits your taste.
How can I thicken my hot sauce?
To thicken the hot sauce, consider simmering it on the stove over low heat to reduce the liquid content. Another option is to add a small amount of tomato paste, which will enhance the tomato flavor while thickening the sauce. Just be cautious not to overpower the existing flavors.
Is this sauce suitable for canning?
This recipe is not intended for canning, as it requires refrigeration for safe storage. If you're interested in preserving it for longer, consider researching canning methods specifically designed for hot sauces, which often involve different ratios of vinegar and acid to ensure safety.
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).