Dill Pickle Hot Sauce

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I’ve always had a soft spot for pickles, so creating a Dill Pickle Hot Sauce felt like the perfect way to channel my love for tangy, spicy goodness into something truly bold and exciting. When I started testing this recipe, my kitchen turned into a lab of bubbling vinegar, minced garlic, and chilies galore. The aroma alone had my mouth watering before I even got the first taste.

After a few experiments, I struck the right balance. This hot sauce has that unmistakable dill tang—bright and punchy—paired with just enough heat to make your taste buds dance. The fresh dill gives it a garden-fresh note, while garlic and chili peppers bring the fire. It’s ideal drizzled over fried chicken, mixed into mayo for a zippy spread, or splashed on your morning eggs if you’re brave.

I’m thrilled to say this hot sauce is now a staple in my fridge, right next to the ketchup and mustard. It’s the kind of condiment that makes you rethink what hot sauce can be. If you’re a fan of bold, punchy flavors and love a good pickle, this one’s for you. Try it once and you’ll be hooked.

For more bold and flavor-packed condiments, you might also enjoy Candied Jalapenos: The Perfect Sweet and Spicy Treat or Fresh Pickled Cucumber Salad to keep your pantry tangy and vibrant.

Why You’ll Love This Dill Pickle Hot Sauce

This Dill Pickle Hot Sauce hits a unique flavor sweet spot between sour, spicy, and savory. It’s got that addictive vinegary tang you love in pickles, but with an added fiery kick that takes it to another level. The ingredients are simple and fresh, and the sauce comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and low in calories, making it a great option for nearly any diet. Whether you use it as a marinade, drizzle, or dip, it’s bound to become your next favorite condiment.

Ingredients

White vinegar
This gives the hot sauce its sharp tang and acts as a natural preservative. It’s the backbone of the pickle flavor that defines this sauce.

Fresh dill
Fresh dill is what brings that classic pickle essence to life. It adds a vibrant herbaceous note that sets this hot sauce apart from others.

Garlic cloves
Garlic provides a pungent depth and enhances the savory profile of the sauce. It complements the dill and brings warmth to the flavor.

Chili peppers (such as serrano or jalapeño)
These are essential for the heat. I like using green chilies like serrano or jalapeño to keep the color and spice in line with the pickle vibe.

Salt
Salt helps balance the acidity and intensifies the flavors of the other ingredients. It also aids in preservation.

Sugar
Just a touch of sugar rounds out the sharp vinegar and heat. It smooths the flavor without making the sauce sweet.

Water
Water is used to slightly dilute the vinegar so the sauce isn’t overpoweringly acidic.

How to Make Dill Pickle Hot Sauce

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Roughly chop the garlic and chilies. Strip the dill fronds from the stems. Measure out the vinegar, water, salt, and sugar.

Step 2: Simmer the Base
In a saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, chopped garlic, chilies, salt, and sugar. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat and let it cook for about 10 minutes until the garlic softens and the flavors meld.

Step 3: Blend Until Smooth
Transfer the hot mixture to a blender or use an immersion blender directly in the pot. Add the fresh dill and blend until smooth. Be careful when blending hot liquids!

Step 4: Strain and Store
Strain the sauce through a fine mesh sieve for a smoother texture, if desired. Pour into sterilized glass bottles or jars. Let it cool before sealing and refrigerating.

Step 5: Chill and Use
Let the sauce sit in the fridge for at least 24 hours to let the flavors develop. Shake well before each use.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

You can tweak this Dill Pickle Hot Sauce to match your heat and flavor preferences. Swap serrano peppers for habaneros if you want more heat, or use banana peppers for a milder version. If you don’t have fresh dill, dried dill can work in a pinch—just reduce the amount to avoid overpowering the sauce. You can also try apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar for a slightly sweeter, fruitier tang. For a smoky touch, toss in a bit of smoked paprika or roasted garlic.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This hot sauce pairs fantastically with fried foods like chicken tenders or onion rings. It also shines on burgers, hot dogs, or even in deviled eggs. Try stirring it into ranch or mayo for a spicy dip or drizzling it over roasted vegetables for a tangy twist. A dash in potato salad or coleslaw will surprise your guests in the best way.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store the Dill Pickle Hot Sauce in a clean, airtight glass jar or bottle in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to a month. Since it’s vinegar-based, it naturally preserves itself, but always check for changes in smell or appearance before using. There’s no reheating needed—just shake it well each time before serving.

FAQs

Can I can or preserve Dill Pickle Hot Sauce for long-term storage?

Yes, but make sure to use proper canning techniques, including sterilizing jars and processing them in a water bath. This ensures safety for shelf storage.

How spicy is Dill Pickle Hot Sauce?

It has a medium heat level when made with serrano or jalapeño peppers. You can adjust the type and quantity of chilies to make it milder or hotter.

What dishes pair best with Dill Pickle Hot Sauce?

It’s amazing on fried chicken, burgers, deviled eggs, or mixed into ranch for a spicy dressing. It also livens up potato salads or sandwiches.

Can I make Dill Pickle Hot Sauce without sugar?

Yes, you can omit the sugar if you’re avoiding sweeteners. The sauce will be sharper and more acidic, but still delicious.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you’re a fan of tangy, bold flavors like this Dill Pickle Hot Sauce, then you’re going to love Candied Jalapenos: The Perfect Sweet and Spicy Treat and Fresh Pickled Cucumber Salad. Both bring that craveable zing with their unique spins, making them great companion condiments or snacks.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Love this recipe? Make sure you don’t lose it! Pin this Dill Pickle Hot Sauce to your favorite board on Pinterest so you can whip it up again anytime. Share it on Facebook, send it in your foodie group chat, or even email it to your spice-loving friend. Every save, share, or pin helps others discover and enjoy this deliciously different condiment!

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