Ingredients
- 4-6 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional)
Tools You'll Need
- Blender or food processor
- Small saucepan
- Fine mesh strainer (optional)
- Glass jar or bottle for storage
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: ~1 cup
Instructions
- Add chipotle peppers, garlic, vinegar, and water to a blender. Blend until completely smooth.
- Pour the blended mixture into a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Add salt, smoked paprika, cumin, and brown sugar. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
- Taste and adjust salt or vinegar as needed.
- Let cool, then transfer to a glass jar or bottle. Refrigerate for up to 3 weeks.
Tips
- For a milder sauce, reduce to 2-3 chipotle peppers and remove their seeds.
- Add a roasted tomato for a deeper, richer flavor.
- Strain through a fine mesh strainer for a silky smooth texture.
- Use Kitsy Box dried peppers for an extra layer of smoky heat!
Learn how to make a bold and flavorful Smoky Chipotle Hot Sauce right in your own kitchen. Using just a handful of ingredients and a blender, this quick DIY recipe delivers a perfect balance of heat, smokiness, and tang — perfect for tacos, grilled meats, or anything that needs a kick.