Whatever you prefer to call it (hot sauce, chile sauce or pepper sauce), this spicy condiment is the savior of every bland meal we've had. It can also cause a frenzied debate when diners are asked to choose their favorite kinds—or rank them in a blind taste test (see the results). In its purest form, hot sauce is made from chiles, vinegar and salt. Some varieties, like Tabasco, are not so subtle and deliver a big hit of immediate heat, while others, such as Sriracha, can be a little sweeter with a thicker consistency. Here are 10 new ways to use your favorite hot sauce:
① Add a few dashes to melted butter plus this addictive Magic Dust and toss with popcorn.
② Fold it into savory oatmeal, like this meaty jook, or Chinese rice porridge, and top with sliced scallions.
③ Combine equal parts maple syrup and hot sauce to make a glaze for the perfect steak.
④ Finish chutney or jam, like this boozy raspberry one, with a spoonful of the hot stuff.
⑤ Add a bit of heat to your caramelized onions with a drop or two. Go the extra mile by turning those onions into a more complex onion dip.
⑥ Toss with mangoes, cucumber and pineapple, and sprinkle with salt for a spicy fruit salad.
⑦ Fold some into all variations of the burger patty.
⑧ Whisk with mustard, vinegar and olive oil for a spicy salad vinaigrette.
⑨ Combine with mayo and lemon zest for an all-purpose sauce, or easiest steak marinade.
⑩ Douse on all five takes of our grilled cheese (while still hot).
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