Warm Greetings, Lykkers! A great meal often needs just one final touch to make it unforgettable—and chili sauce might be that magic element.

Whether used as a marinade, a dip, or a stir-in sauce, this homemade version delivers vibrant heat, freshness, and depth unmatched by store-bought bottles.

Crafted in your own kitchen, it's fully customizable and bursting with real flavor!

Step-by-Step: Make Your Own Chili Sauce

Ingredients You'll Need:

200g fresh red chilies (adjust to your heat preference)

5 cloves garlic

1 small shallot

1 tablespoon brown sugar

3 tablespoons white vinegar

2 teaspoons salt

4 tablespoons neutral oil (like canola or sunflower)

100ml water

Cooking Instructions:

1. Rinse chilies, remove stems, and slice roughly. If a milder sauce is preferred, deseed them.

2. Peel garlic and shallot, then cut them into small pieces.

3. Combine chilies, garlic, shallot, and water in a blender. Blend until smooth.

4. Heat oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Pour in the blended mixture.

5. Stir continuously and cook for 10–12 minutes until it thickens slightly and changes to a deeper red.

6. Add vinegar, sugar, and salt. Simmer gently for another 5–8 minutes, allowing the flavors to merge.

7. Let it cool completely before pouring into a sterilized glass jar. Store in the refrigerator.

Flavor Notes and Customization Tips

A pinch of smoked paprika or fermented bean paste will add complexity, while a few slices of tomato can balance acidity. This sauce pairs beautifully with grilled meat, noodles, dumplings, or even fried eggs. The shelf life in the fridge is up to three weeks when stored properly. For longer storage, consider sterilizing jars and sealing them while hot.

A homemade chili sauce doesn't just add spice—it adds character to every dish. By making it yourself, every spoonful becomes a celebration of fresh ingredients and bold flavor. Whether drizzled over rice or mixed into a stir-fry, this recipe brings the heat straight from your kitchen to the table!