The balance of sweet honey, robust garlic, and fiery hot sauce creates a flavor experience that is both comforting and exhilarating. As the sauce simmers, the honey caramelizes slightly, blending harmoniously with the savory notes of garlic and soy sauce. The apple cider vinegar adds just the right amount of tang, cutting through the sweetness and heat to create a well-rounded sauce that’s perfect for adding a burst of flavor to any dish. The optional crushed red pepper flakes introduce an extra layer of heat, making this sauce customizable to your spice preference. Whether you’re a fan of bold flavors or prefer a milder touch, this Honey Garlic Hot Sauce is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup honey
- 8 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup hot sauce (like sriracha or your favorite brand)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Prepare the Garlic: Start by peeling and finely mincing the garlic cloves. The more finely you mince the garlic, the better the flavors will infuse into the sauce.
- Cook the Garlic: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the unsalted butter. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this could give the sauce a bitter taste.
- Mix the Ingredients: After the garlic is cooked, add the honey, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and hot sauce to the saucepan. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering process allows the flavors to meld together and intensify.
- Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the simmering sauce while stirring continuously. This will help thicken the sauce, giving it a smooth, glossy texture. Continue to cook the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes until it reaches your desired thickness.
- Season the Sauce: Once the sauce has thickened, add the crushed red pepper flakes (if using), ground black pepper, and salt. Stir to combine, then taste the sauce. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference. If you want it hotter, you can add more hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes. For a sweeter touch, a little extra honey can be added.
- Cool and Store: Remove the sauce from the heat and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer the sauce to a clean, airtight jar or bottle. This sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Serving Suggestions:
This Honey Garlic Hot Sauce is incredibly versatile. Drizzle it over chicken wings, toss it with roasted vegetables, or use it as a dipping sauce for fried snacks. It also makes a fantastic glaze for grilled meats or as a flavorful topping for burgers and sandwiches. For a unique twist, try mixing it with mayonnaise to create a spicy-sweet dipping sauce or spread.
