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Jamaican Scotch Bonnet Pepper Sauce 

March 16, 2024
Shanika | Orchids + Sweet Tea

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Get ready for a taste of the Caribbean with our Jamaican Scotch Bonnet Pepper Sauce! Versatile and vibrant, it can be used as a sauce or marinade, adding a kick wherever you need it.

Jamaican Scotch Bonnet Pepper Sauce 

Our Jamaican Scotch Bonnet Pepper Sauce is a flavor-packed concoction, boasting a blend of garlic, ginger, chilies, raw honey, pimento berries, and more. It's a fiery condiment that brings both heat + depth of flavor to your dishes. The scotch bonnet peppers deliver a substantial level of heat, providing a bold kick --- It's spicy enough to wake up your taste buds, so use it with caution—or pour it on liberally if you're craving that fiery kick! Completely Dairy-free, Vegan + Gluten-free. Make-ahead, freezer-friendly + less spicy option.

Pepper sauce in a mason jar with a spoon and scotch bonnet and thyme sprigs on a brown wood table.

Why This Jamaican Scotch Bonnet Pepper Sauce Is A Must Have In Your Kitchen!

You all probably know by now how I can't resist adding a touch of my Jamaican roots to recipes, right? Well, after seeing the love you all gave my Traditional Jamaican Green Seasoning, I just had to let you in on this gem—the Jamaican Scotch Bonnet Pepper Sauce aka Jamaican hot sauce! It's packed with so much spice and flavor that anyone who enjoys a little heat is bound to fall head over heels for it.

I've been diving into more Jamaican recipes as we step into the new year—like my Spicy Jamaican Beef Patties, Creamy Jamaican Rasta PastaPlant-based Jamaican Oxtail, and the beloved Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken. But, let's face it, those recipes are a labor of love.

That's why I'm excited to share this gem with you! It's a fantastic way to inject those spicy, herby Caribbean vibes into your meals without the hustle. Plus, it's fridge + freezer-friendly, so you can keep it handy to jazz up soupsdressings, marinades + beyond!

Jump to:

What Is Jamaican Scotch Bonnet Pepper Sauce?

Jamaican Scotch Bonnet Pepper Sauce is a spicy and tasty condiment from Jamaica essentially it's jamaican hot sauce. It's made with Scotch bonnet peppers, garlic, vinegar, and spices like ginger and pimento berries. This sauce brings serious heat, thanks to the fiery Scotch bonnet peppers. It's perfect for adding a kick to all sorts of dishes, from meats to soups and more!

All ingredients in a silver bowl.

How To Make Jamaican Scotch Bonnet Pepper Sauce

Start by prepping your veggies—roughly chop them up to make blending a breeze. Then, toss everything into a high-powered blender and blend until smooth. If the consistency is too thick, feel free to add a splash of water to thin it out. Once blended to perfection, transfer your Jamaican hot sauce into a sterilized mason jar or a tightly sealed container.

Ingredients

Here is everything you need to make Jamaican hot sauce:

PEPPER SAUCE:

  • Scotch bonnet peppers. Whole + stems removed. Our spicy delicious powerhouse!
  • Carrots. Peeled + chopped.
  • Onion. You can use red, white, or yellow onions.
  • Green onions. Aka scallions, ends trimmed.
  • Garlic bulbs. A strong + pungent flavor that adds depth! You can use less than the recipe calls for for a lighter flavor.
  • Ginger root. Be sure to peel it first!
  • Pimento berries. A Jamaican staple ---Brings warm, peppery notes to the mix.
  • Raw honey. Raw honey has better flavor, texture and is better for you (very high in antioxidants) than processed honey. I love the brand Nate's.
  • White vinegar. Adds a little bit of acidity.
  • Lime. Freshly-squeezed.
  • Smoked paprika + garlic powder. For some smokiness and umami flavor.
  • Sea salt. To taste.

SHOP MY FAVORITE TOOLS FOR COOKING, ESPECIALLY FOR THIS SAUCE!

Here, I’ve curated a list of baking essentials that I use to achieve my favorite dishes, especially with this Jamaican Scotch Bonnet Pepper Sauce. Everything from whisks, blenders, knives, and more. SEE THEM HERE!

Scotch bonnet peppers on a brown wood table being held.

Why You Will LOVE Jamaican Scotch Bonnet Pepper Sauce

  • Adds a Caribbean flair to any dish
  • Completely versatile + easily adaptable whether it's meat, fish, stews, or plant-based options, this seasoning adds SO MUCH depth, character + heat.
  • Make ahead + freezer friendly!
  • Super easy to whip up!
  • It's an instant spicy upgrade to any meal!
Ingredients being chopped on a cutting board with a knife.

What is Jamaican Scotch Bonnet Pepper Sauce Used For?

Jamaican Scotch Bonnet Pepper Sauce is a versatile gem in the kitchen! It's used to elevate a wide range of dishes, including:

Marinades --- Perfect for marinating meats, fish, or plant-based options like tofu + tempeh, infusing them with a burst of vibrant flavors.

Seasoning --- Adds depth to stews, sauces, and soups, enhancing their taste profiles. I love to add some atop on this Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup + Creamy Roasted Garlic Cauliflower Chickpea Soup for a spicy kick!

Grilling --- Ideal for grilling or roasting to impart that authentic Caribbean taste to your grilled meats or veggies.

Stir-Fries --- Elevates stir-fries, giving them an aromatic and zesty kick.

Dips + Dressings --- It can be mixed into dips or dressings, offering a unique twist to your condiments. Instead of homemade pesto in this Whipped Feta Pesto Dip recipe try Jamaican Scotch Bonnet Pepper Sauce. Ahhh-mazing!

All ingredients in a food processor.

How To Use Jamaican Scotch Bonnet Pepper Sauce

The beauty of using this seasoning lies in its adaptability --- To use it in recipes, you'll need as much as you can handle with the heat because it is essentially Jamaican hot sauce! The amount you use depends on the food quantity. As a rule of thumb, you can add one to two tablespoons per pound of meat. Use less you can always add in more!

Can This Scotch Bonnet Pepper Sauce Be Used For Vegetarian or Vegan Dishes?

For sure! This seasoning is a total game-changer in vegetarian and vegan cooking. It amps up the flavors of tofu, tempeh, jackfruit, and even roasted veggies, giving them that irresistible Caribbean kick. It's like a flavor party that veggie dishes totally enjoy! Whether you're marinading, seasoning, or adding depth to soups and stews, this seasoning's got your plant-based back!

Ingredients smoothly processed.

Health Benefits Of Scotch Bonnet Peppers

Adding Scotch Bonnet Pepper to your recipes is like giving them a flavor upgrade! Bursting with antioxidants, vitamin C, and capsaicin (Capsaicin is the compound responsible for the spicy sensation in chili peppers), it not only spices up your meals but might also give you a health boost.

Is This Seasoning Really Spicy Due To The Scotch Bonnet Pepper?

The heat level of this sauce can be adjusted based on personal preference-- Removing the seeds and veins of the scotch bonnets can reduce the spice level while still maintaining the flavor. Feel free to modify the amount to suit your spice tolerance.

Pepper sauce in a mason jar with scotch bonnet peppers.

Jamaican Scotch Bonnet Pepper Sauce Q + A's

How Long Does This Jamaican Scotch Bonnet Pepper Sauce Last?

This seasoning can last for up to two weeks in the refrigerator as long as it's stored in an airtight container.

Can I Make This Ahead Of Time?

Yup! In fact, this sauce can benefit from some time in the fridge to allow the flavors to meld together. You can make it a few days ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you're ready to use it. Just give it a good stir before using.

Can I freeze this Jamaican hot sauce?

Yes definitely! I love making big batches and freezing them in ice cube trays, after they are frozen, remove the cubes from the trays and store them in freezer bags.

Can I Make Jamaican hot sauce less spicy?

Yes, don't worry y'all--- If you want a little less heat you can control the flavor by adjusting the amount of scotch bonnet pepper or removing the seeds for a milder flavor!

Pepper sauce in a mason jar with a spoon.

More Tasty Homemade Sauces + Dressings

Now that you love this Jamaican Scotch Bonnet Pepper Sauce, give these delicious dairy-free sauce recipes that your entire family will love a try next:

MADE OUR RECIPE(S)?

If you tried this Jamaican Scotch Bonnet Pepper Sauce recipe or any other recipe on my website, please please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how you go in the 📝 comments below. And don't forget to tag @orchidsnsweettea_ on Instagramand hashtag it #orchidsandsweettea! I love hearing from you!

Pepper sauce in a mason jar with scotch bonnet peppers and pimento seeds.

Jamaican Scotch Bonnet Pepper Sauce 

March 16, 2024
5 from 1 vote
Our Jamaican Scotch Bonnet Pepper Sauce is a flavor-packed concoction, boasting a blend of garlic, ginger, chilies, raw honey, pimento berries, and more. It's a fiery condiment that brings both heat + depth of flavor to your dishes. The scotch bonnet peppers deliver a substantial level of heat, providing a bold kick --- It's spicy enough to wake up your taste buds, so use it with caution—or pour it on liberally if you're craving that fiery kick! Completely Dairy-free, Vegan + Gluten-free. Make-ahead, freezer-friendly + less spicy option.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Serves: 4 cups

Ingredients

PEPPER SAUCE:

  • 20-25 scotch bonnet peppers, whole + stems removed
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled + chopped
  • 1 onion, chopped (You can use red, white, or yellow onions)
  • 1 bunch green onions (aka scallions), ends trimmed
  • 2 bulbs garlic, peeled
  • 1 inch ginger root, peeled
  • handful pimento berries
  • 2 Tbsps organic raw honey
  • ¼ cup white vinegar + 2 Tbsps
  • sea salt, to taste
  • 1 lime, freshly-squeezed
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

PREP THE VEGGIES:

  • For an easier blend, you can roughly chop all veggies (especially the larger ones) if desired.

BLEND EVERYTHING TOGETHER:

  • Add all of the ingredients to a high-powered blender and blend until smooth, about 1-2 minutes. NOTE: Add a bit of water if needed for a thinner consistency.
  • Add the scotch bonnet pepper sauce to your favorite mason jar (sterilized) or tightly sealed container and refrigerate for up to 3 months.
  • To use in recipes, you'll need as much as you can handle the heat which works perfectly on meats, seafood, soups, etc.
  • Bon Appetit!

Tips & Tricks

FREEZE FOR LONGER: You can prepare in large batches and freeze them in ice cube trays, after they are frozen, remove the cubes from the trays and store in freezer bags.

Nutrition

Calories: 31kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 0.2g | Saturated Fat: 0.03g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.01g | Sodium: 23mg | Potassium: 171mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 5351IU | Vitamin C: 9mg | Calcium: 23mg | Iron: 0.4mg

DID YOU MAKE THIS recipe?

Tag @orchidsnsweettea_ on Instagram and hashtag it #orchidsandsweettea

Xx, Shanika in script writing

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