Winter Chili Sauce
Winter Chili Sauce is a vibrant and zesty condiment that combines the sweetness of tomatoes and sugar with the warmth of spices like cinnamon and cloves. Perfect for adding a kick to any winter meal, this sauce is ideal for those who love bold flavors and homemade preserves.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grind ingredients.
- Cook until thickened.
- Put in jars and refrigerate after it cools.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, blend the tomatoes and peppers thoroughly before cooking. If you prefer a sweeter chili sauce, consider increasing the sugar or adding a touch of honey. You can substitute apple cider vinegar for white vinegar for a different flavor profile. Also, feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more hot peppers or using milder varieties to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
This Winter Chili Sauce is perfect as a condiment for grilled meats or as a zesty addition to sandwiches. It pairs beautifully with the Best Cake In The World for a delightful contrast. Consider serving it over rice or with tortilla chips for a fun appetizer. It can also be used to spice up your favorite vegan recipes, adding depth to any dish.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, transfer the chili sauce to airtight jars and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze the sauce in freezer-safe containers. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Winter Chili Sauce contains roughly 351 calories, with 5g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (37% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1385mg per serving (60% 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 fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but you'll need to blanch and peel them first. About 2-3 pounds of fresh tomatoes will yield the equivalent of one large can. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary, as fresh tomatoes can have more moisture, which may require longer cooking to thicken the sauce.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the sauce?
To control the heat, you can add more or fewer hot peppers based on your preference. If you want a milder sauce, remove the seeds from the hot peppers or substitute with a milder variety like banana peppers. Conversely, for a spicier kick, try adding crushed red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce.
Is there a way to make this sauce thicker?
If your sauce is too thin, you can simmer it longer to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you could add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it up. Just be sure to stir well to avoid lumps and ensure an even consistency.
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).