Hot Sauce Kit FAQs
What’s included in the Hot Sauce Kit?
You’ll get a variety of dried peppers depending on the kit, vinegar, seasoning blend, 3 bottles, gloves, funnel, measuring cup, and a recipe book. Just add a tomato and your creativity!
Do I need any tools or ingredients?
All the specialty items are included. You’ll just need basic kitchen tools like a pot and a blender. You’ll also need a few fresh ingredients like a tomato.
I’ve never made hot sauce before — is this beginner-friendly?
Absolutely! Our kit was made for first-timers. The step-by-step recipe guide walks you through everything with zero stress. You’ll be bottling your own sauce in no time!
How many bottles does it make?
Each pepper pack makes about 3 bottles of hot sauce. Depending on the kit you choose, you’ll receive 3 to 5 pepper packs — enough to make up to 15 bottles total. Each bottle is 5 oz — perfect for keeping one, gifting one, and bragging about the rest.
How do I know when the sauce is done?
Once the peppers and other ingredients are softened and blended into a smooth texture, you're good to go. Most sauces simmer for about 10–15 minutes before blending.
Do I need to strain the sauce?
Totally optional. Straining gives you a silky-smooth finish, but some people love the thick, rustic texture unfiltered. Try both and find your style!
Can I customize the recipe?
Yes! We encourage it. The recipe guide is a jumping-off point — feel free to add fruit (like mango or pineapple), garlic, honey, or even booze. It’s your sauce, your rules.
Can I make it milder or hotter?
You’re the boss of the burn. Use less of the spicier peppers (Ghost, Reaper) for a mild sauce, or lean into them if you’re feeling brave. Want even more heat? Add them all in.
Can I make it thicker or thinner?
To thicken: simmer a little longer or reduce the vinegar. To thin it out: just add more vinegar or water a bit at a time until you reach the perfect pour.
Is it normal for the color to change as it cooks?
Totally normal. Peppers naturally darken as they cook, and the final color depends on your pepper blend. It may be red, orange, brown, or even deep black — all delicious.
Do I really need gloves?
Yes! Some of these peppers (looking at you, Reaper) are super potent. Always wear gloves while handling them — and definitely don’t touch your eyes afterward!
What if I touch my face by accident?
Rinse the area with cold water and dish soap. Then use milk or yogurt to help cool the burn. Avoid rubbing or using hot water — it can make it worse!
Do I need to sterilize the bottles?
Yes — sterilizing your bottles before filling is recommended for food safety. We advise following official sterilization guidelines. The National Center for Home Food Preservation provides detailed instructions here:
👉 Sterilization of Empty Jars
Disclaimer: Kitsy Box provides this link for informational purposes only. Please follow safety protocols and use your best judgment when handling food.
Is the smell supposed to be this intense?
Yes — that’s the peppers doing their magic. Cook with a window open or fan on for better airflow. It’s part of the adventure!
How long does the finished sauce last?
Hot sauce made with vinegar can last 6–12 months unopened and stored in the fridge. Use within 3–6 months for best flavor.
Do the bottles come with labels?
Yes! Blank labels are included so you can name your sauces however you like. Marker-friendly and ready for puns.
Can I reuse the bottles?
Absolutely. Just wash them thoroughly and sterilize again before refilling. DIY never ends.
My sauce is way too spicy. What now?
Add more vinegar, tomatoes, or even fruit (like mango or pineapple) to mellow it out. You can also blend in another batch of mild ingredients to balance it.
It’s too thin. Can I thicken it?
Yep — simmer it longer to reduce the liquid, or add cooked veggies like carrot, sweet potato, or even a bit of xanthan gum if you’re fancy.
It’s too thick. What do I do?
Stir in small amounts of water or vinegar until it flows the way you like. Easy fix.
I forgot to wear gloves. Now what?
Wash your hands with dish soap (not just water), and rub with dairy like yogurt or sour cream. It’ll help cut the burn. Avoid touching your face!
I burned the sauce — is it ruined?
If it tastes bitter or smoky, try blending in sweetness (like fruit or honey) to mask it. Or lean into the "charred flavor".
