Ah, peri peri sauce. Just the mention of it makes my taste buds do a little dance of joy.
It’s like a fiery tango on your tongue, taking you to the sun-drenched shores of Portugal. I stumbled upon this recipe during a summer road trip, where a little roadside café served it with everything—from fries to grilled chicken.
And let me tell you, this sauce isn’t just about heat. It’s a symphony of flavors, each note singing in harmony, with a hint of citrusy brightness that bursts through the fiery warmth.
Steps
- Begin by gathering your ingredients, which include red chilies (preferably African Bird’s Eye), garlic, smoked paprika, fresh herbs like cilantro and oregano, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt.
- Chop the chilies and garlic, then measure out your smoked paprika, fresh herbs, olive oil, and lemon juice. This preparation will streamline the blending process.
- Place all the prepared ingredients into a food processor or blender. Blend the mixture until it reaches a smooth consistency that you prefer.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt if needed. You can also strain the sauce to remove excess liquid, depending on your preference.
- Once the sauce is ready, transfer it to a container and refrigerate until you’re ready to use it. Enjoy your homemade peri peri sauce with grilled chicken, seafood, or vegetables.
Ingredients
- 1 pound red chilies, chopped (African Bird’s Eye peppers are traditional, but you can use any red peppers available)
- 4 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (other chili powders can be used as a substitute)
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped oregano (fresh basil can be used as an alternative)
- 1/2 cup olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- Juice from 1 lemon
- Salt, to taste
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1160kcal | Carbohydrates: 40g | Fat: 100g | Sodium: 40mg | Potassium: 1580mg | Sugar: 20g | Vitamin A: 6200IU | Vitamin C: 658mg | Calcium: 100mg | Iron: 6mg
FAQ
- What is Peri Peri Sauce?
- Peri Peri Sauce, also referred to as piri piri or pili pili, is a traditional sauce originating from South Africa. It’s made using spicy African Bird’s Eye chili peppers and is well-loved by those who enjoy spicy foods.
- Can I substitute the African Bird’s Eye chilies with other peppers?
- Yes, if you cannot find African Bird’s Eye chilies, you can use other red peppers like red bell peppers, red jalapeños, or even fiery habanero and ghost peppers for a similar spicy kick.
- How versatile is Peri Peri Sauce in cooking?
- This sauce is incredibly versatile and can be used as a marinade, dip, or condiment. It pairs excellently with grilled chicken, seafood, and even grilled vegetables, adding a spicy zest to dishes.
- How should I store Peri Peri Sauce, and how long will it keep?
- Peri Peri Sauce can be stored in the refrigerator and should last for a few months. Its longevity is due to its acidity, which should ideally be around a pH of 3.5 for home storage.
- What are the key ingredients in a traditional Peri Peri Sauce recipe?
- The essential ingredients include red chilies (preferably African Bird’s Eye), fresh garlic, smoked paprika, fresh herbs like cilantro and basil, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt to taste.
Tips
- Pepper Substitutions: If you can’t find African Bird’s Eye chilies, you can substitute with any red peppers you have on hand, such as red jalapeños, cayenne peppers, or even habanero and ghost peppers for added heat.
- Herb Variations: While the recipe uses basil and cilantro, you can experiment with other herbs like oregano, tarragon, or rosemary to find your preferred flavor profile.
- Storage Advice: Store the peri peri sauce in the refrigerator, where it should last for several months. Ensure the sauce’s acidity is below 3.5 pH for longer shelf life and to maintain safety.
- Versatile Uses: This sauce isn’t just for chicken. Try it as a marinade or condiment for seafood, grilled vegetables, or even mixed with Buffalo wing sauce for a spicy twist.
Equipment
- Food Processor or Blender – Essential for processing the ingredients into a smooth sauce.
- Swing Top Glass Bottles or Hot Sauce Bottles – Useful for storing the finished sauce.
