How to Make Fermented Hot Sauce: A Simple Guide for Gut Health

Let’s make a healthy, gut friendly Fermented Hot Sauce.

Welcome to Naturally Jamie!

If you’re a fan of bold flavors and love a bit of heat in your food, you’re in for a treat today.

We’re going to learn how to make fermented hot sauce—an easy and delicious way to spice up your meals while boosting your gut health with beneficial probiotics.

Why Ferment Your Hot Sauce?

Fermented hot sauce isn’t just about adding a kick to your favorite dishes; it’s also packed with health benefits. The fermentation process creates probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that support your digestive system, strengthen your immune response, and even improve your mood. Plus, fermented hot sauce has a depth of flavor that you simply can’t get from store-bought versions.

What You’ll Need to Make Fermented Hot Sauce

Making your own fermented hot sauce is simpler than you might think! Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound of fresh hot peppers (like jalapeños, habaneros, or a mix)
4 cloves of garlic
1 medium onion (optional, for added flavor)
2 teaspoons of sea salt
2 cups of water (filtered or distilled is best)
A clean glass jar (quart-sized works well)
A fermentation weight and lid (optional, but helpful)

1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by washing your peppers thoroughly. If you prefer a milder hot sauce, you can remove the seeds; otherwise, leave them in for extra heat. Chop the peppers into small pieces, then peel and chop the garlic and onion.

2: Create the Brine

In a separate bowl, dissolve the sea salt in 2 cups of water to create a brine. This salty solution is what will help ferment the peppers and keep them submerged during the process.

3: Pack the Jar

Place the chopped peppers, garlic, and onion into your clean glass jar. You can layer them or mix them all together—it’s up to you! Once the jar is packed with your ingredients, pour the brine over the top, making sure everything is fully submerged. If you have a fermentation weight, place it on top of the vegetables to keep them from floating above the brine.

If you’re using a fermentation lid, screw it on loosely to allow gases to escape as the peppers ferment. If you don’t have one, you can cover the jar with a clean cloth or paper towel and secure it with a rubber band.

4: Let It Ferment

Now comes the fun part—fermentation! Place your jar in a cool, dark place at room temperature. Let it sit for about 1 to 2 weeks. The exact fermentation time depends on your taste preferences; the longer it ferments, the more complex and tangy the flavor will become.

During the fermentation process, check on your jar daily. If you notice any peppers floating above the brine, push them back down to prevent spoilage. You might also see some bubbling or a bit of white film on the surface—this is normal and part of the fermentation process. Just skim off any film if it appears.

5: Blend Your Hot Sauce

Once your hot sauce has fermented to your liking, it’s time to blend it. Carefully pour the fermented peppers, garlic, onion, and brine into a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth. If you prefer a thinner sauce, you can strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any solids.

Taste your hot sauce at this stage—if it’s too tangy, you can add a small amount of vinegar to balance the flavors.

6: Bottle and Store

Pour your finished hot sauce into a clean glass bottle or jar. It’s now ready to use! Store your hot sauce in the refrigerator, where it will keep for several months. The flavor will continue to develop over time, becoming even more delicious as it ages.

How to Use Fermented Hot Sauce

Fermented hot sauce is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways you can enjoy it:

On eggs – Drizzle it over scrambled or fried eggs for a spicy kick.
In marinades – Add a spoonful to your favorite marinade for chicken, beef, or tofu.
In soups and stews – Stir it into soups, stews, or chili for an extra layer of flavor.
On tacos – A few drops on tacos, burritos, or nachos can take your meal to the next level.
As a dipping sauce – Mix it with a little mayo or yogurt for a spicy dipping sauce.

Benefits of Eating Fermented Hot Sauce

Probiotics: Fermented foods like hot sauce are rich in probiotics, which help support a healthy gut.
Vitamins and Antioxidants: Peppers are packed with vitamins C and A, as well as antioxidants that are great for your immune system.
Flavor Boost: Fermenting hot sauce deepens its flavor, making it more complex and rich compared to non-fermented versions.

FAQ About Making Fermented Hot Sauce

Q: How long does fermented hot sauce last?

A: When stored in the refrigerator, fermented hot sauce can last for several months. The vinegar and fermentation help preserve it naturally.

Q: Can I use different types of peppers?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of peppers depending on your heat tolerance and flavor preference. You can even mix mild and hot peppers together.

Q: What if my hot sauce is too spicy?

A: If your hot sauce turns out too spicy, you can mix in some roasted red bell peppers or even a bit of fruit, like mango or pineapple, to mellow out the heat.

Q: Is it safe to ferment hot sauce at home?

A: Yes, as long as you follow proper sanitation practices and keep the peppers submerged in the brine, fermenting hot sauce at home is safe. Always taste and smell your ferment—if it smells off or you see mold, discard it and start fresh.

Explore More Fermented Recipes!

If you’re excited about fermenting foods at home, you might want to try making your own sauerkraut. Check out my sauerkraut recipe here for another delicious and gut-friendly ferment!

Conclusion

Fermenting your own hot sauce is a fun and easy way to enjoy a healthy, flavorful condiment that’s great for your gut. With just a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create a sauce that’s bursting with flavor and loaded with probiotics.

So, grab some peppers and get fermenting—your taste buds and your gut will thank you!