Chili Pineapple Sauce

Introduction:

Chili Pineapple Sauce is a delightful blend of sweet pineapple and spicy chili flavors, perfect for adding a zesty kick to a variety of dishes. This versatile sauce combines the tanginess of pineapple juice with the heat of chili flakes, creating a unique and flavorful condiment that can be used in marinades, glazes, or as a dipping sauce.

Ingredients

• 2 cups pineapple juice (cooked down by half)
• ½ cup rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 1-2 tbsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste; option to use 2 small dry bird’s eye chilies instead)
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 2 tbsp cornflour
• 4 tbsp cold water
• Honey (to taste)
• Optional: habanero for extra heat

Directions

1. Simmer Pineapple Juice: In a saucepan, simmer pineapple juice until it reduces by half.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large heavy-bottomed pan, combine the reduced pineapple juice, vinegar, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Add Spices: Stir in the chili flakes and minced garlic. Continue to boil over medium heat for 5 minutes.
4. Thicken Sauce: In a small bowl, mix cornflour with cold water until smooth. Reduce heat to low and slowly stir the cornflour mixture into the pan, avoiding lumps. Cook on low heat until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. Note that it will thicken further as it cools. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of water.
5. Cool and Store: Once cooled, transfer the sauce to a sterilized bottle and refrigerate.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 2 cups of sauce
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Heat Level: Adjust the amount of red chili flakes or add habanero for more heat.
• Sweetness: Add honey to taste for a sweeter sauce.
• Vinegar: Use rice vinegar for a milder flavor or apple cider vinegar for a slightly tangier taste.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep the sauce refrigerated in a sterilized bottle. It can be stored for up to 2-3 weeks.
• Reheating: Gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat if needed. Stir frequently to prevent burning.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of pineapple juice?
   • Yes, you can use fresh pineapple juice, but you will need to cook it down to reduce it by half.
2. How can I adjust the heat level?
   • Adjust the amount of red chili flakes or add more chilies to increase the heat.
3. Can I use a different type of vinegar?
   • Yes, apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar can be used as substitutes.
4. What if my sauce is too thick?
   • Add a bit of water to reach your desired consistency.
5. Can I use this sauce as a marinade?
   • Yes, it makes a great marinade for chicken, pork, or tofu.
6. How long does the sauce keep in the refrigerator?
   • It keeps for up to 2-3 weeks when stored properly.
7. Can I freeze this sauce?
   • Yes, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.
8. What can I serve this sauce with?
   • It’s great with grilled meats, stir-fries, or as a dipping sauce for appetizers.
9. Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
   • Yes, it can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
10. Is this sauce suitable for vegans?
    • Yes, as long as honey is omitted or replaced with a vegan alternative.

Conclusion

Chili Pineapple Sauce is a versatile and flavorful condiment that adds a delicious sweet and spicy kick to any dish. With its easy preparation and customizable heat level, it’s perfect for enhancing your favorite recipes. Whether used as a marinade, glaze, or dipping sauce, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen, bringing a unique twist to everyday meals.

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