How to Make and Can Delicious Chili Sauce
Looking to add a fiery kick to your meals? Making your own chili sauce is a fun and rewarding experience, and canning it allows you to enjoy its flavor all year round. Here's a simple recipe for canning delicious chili sauce:
Ingredients:
- 10 pounds ripe red chili peppers (any variety, but habaneros or jalapeños are popular)
- 2 large onions
- 4 cups white vinegar
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peppers:
- Remove stems and seeds from chili peppers. Seeds are where the heat comes from, so remove more seeds for milder sauce.
- Tip: Wear gloves to prevent irritation.
2. Cook the Peppers:
- Boil the chili peppers, onions, vinegar, water, sugar, and salt in a large pot for 20 minutes.
- Tip: If you prefer a smoother sauce, blend the mixture for a few seconds with an immersion blender.
3. Sterilize Jars and Lids:
- Wash jars and lids in hot soapy water.
- Place jars in a large pot of water and bring to a boil for 10 minutes.
- Place lids in a separate pot of simmering water.
4. Fill Jars:
- While hot, ladle the hot chili sauce into the hot jars, leaving 1/2 inch headspace.
- Wipe the jar rims with a clean cloth to remove any residue.
5. Seal and Process:
- Place lids on jars, screw on rings until snug, but not over-tightened.
- Place jars in a large canning pot filled with water. The water should cover the jars by at least 1 inch.
- Bring water to a boil, then process for 15 minutes.
- Tip: Consult the USDA canning guidelines for specific processing times based on your altitude.
6. Cool and Store:
- Carefully remove jars from the pot and let them cool completely.
- You should hear a popping sound as the lids seal.
- Store your homemade chili sauce in a cool, dark place.
Enjoy your delicious homemade chili sauce!
Tips for Canning Chili Sauce:
- Adjust heat: Use different chili pepper varieties to experiment with varying levels of spiciness.
- Add flavor: Experiment with adding garlic, ginger, or other spices to your chili sauce.
- Use a food mill: If you want a smoother sauce, use a food mill to remove the seeds and skins before canning.
- Label your jars: Label your jars with the date so you know how old they are.
Remember: Canning is a science, and following safe guidelines is important. Always refer to the USDA canning guidelines for specific instructions and safety tips.
