Homemade Tabasco Sauce is crazy simple to make and will last for months in your fridge. I love the idea of making my own condiments. For the longest time, due to the huge availability of every condiment under the sun, I never considered making my own. Tabasco sauce was something I would buy but never make; much like Worcestershire sauce or ketchup. In this time of food shortages, I think it’s best we figure out how to make our own everything so we don’t have to go without.

Tabasco sauce is a red chili hot sauce similar to Frank’s Hot Sauce or Sriracha, just a bit thinner so a better condiment for things like cocktails and oysters. Warning: make sure you have good ventilation when you’re making your homemade tabasco sauce. The air gets really potent!

HOMEMADE TABASCO SAUCE –

• 4 ounces fresh Thai red chilies, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, peeled and minced
• 1/2 cup distilled white vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

THE STEPS:

1. Wearing disposable gloves, wash the chilies, remove and discard stem ends
2. Combine the chilies, garlic and the vinegar in a saucepan over over medium-high heat.
3. Stir in the salt and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Remove from the heat, cool, and place in a blender or food processor. Puree until smooth and place in a glass jar with cover.
5. Allow to steep for 2 weeks in the refrigerator.
6. Remove from fridge. It will look as if there is no liquid but there is.
7. Strain the sauce throw a small sieve using a spoon to force the liquid ot. Throw solids away carefully. Remember how potent these chillies are!
8. Pour the tabasco into a bottle with a tight filling lid. Add more vinegar if necessary to adjust consistency. I loved it so did not add any more vinegar but you might like it a bit thinner.
9. Refrigerate up to 6 months.
10. Shake well before each use.

THE LOVE: If you can’t find red Thai chilies, you can use Fresno chilies which are red jalapeños.  If you have sensitive skin, make sure you put on a pair of disposable gloves before you begin. The pepper juice is very strong and can sting your skin. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling the peppers, as well. Avoid touching your eyes and face while handing the peppers.

Thanks for reading.