Whether you’re a fan of mild heat or love your food fiery, chilli sauces offer incredible range and flavor. Making them at home allows you to control the spice level, ingredients, and freshness. Here are 7 distinct types of chilli sauces you can whip up in your kitchen.

1. CLASSIC RED CHILLI GARLIC SAUCE

This is a staple in many Asian kitchens. Blend soaked dried red chillies with garlic, vinegar, salt, and a bit of sugar. Simmer until thick. This sauce adds bold flavor to stir-fries, noodles, and momos.

Ingredients:

• 10 dried red chillies

• 5 garlic cloves

• 2 tbsp vinegar

• 1 tsp sugar

• Salt to taste

2. GREEN CHILLI CORIANDER SAUCE

Fresh and zesty, this green sauce combines green chillies, coriander leaves, lemon juice, and a dash of cumin. Great as a dip for snacks or as a spread in sandwiches.

Ingredients:

• 8 green chillies

• 1 cup fresh coriander

• Juice of 1 lemon

• tsp cumin

• Salt to taste

3. SWEET CHILLI SAUCE

A Thai-inspired sauce that balances sweet, sour, and spicy flavors. Made with fresh red chillies, garlic, vinegar, and sugar. It’s perfect for spring rolls, nuggets, or tofu.

Ingredients:

4. SMOKY ROASTED CHILLI SAUCE

This sauce brings depth through roasted red chillies and tomatoes. Add garlic, onions, and smoked paprika for a BBQ-style condiment. Ideal for grilled veggies, meats, or tacos.

Ingredients:

• 6 red chillies (roasted)

• 2 tomatoes (roasted)

• 1 onion

• 3 garlic cloves

• tsp smoked paprika

5. FERMENTED CHILLI SAUCE (HOT SAUCE STYLE)

If you want complex flavor, ferment chopped chillies and garlic in salt water for 5–7 days. Blend and strain for a tangy, probiotic-rich hot sauce.

Ingredients:

6. HARISSA (NORTH AFRICAN STYLE)

A thick, spiced red chilli paste made with cumin, coriander, and olive oil. Harissa adds warmth and depth to pasta, couscous, or stews.

Ingredients:

• 8 dried red chillies

• 1 tsp cumin

• 1 tsp coriander

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 3 garlic cloves

7. MINT CHILLI SAUCE

A cooling yet spicy sauce that blends green chillies with mint and lemon. Pairs well with Indian snacks like samosas, pakoras, or kebabs.

Ingredients:

Chilli sauces are easy to customise, store, and use in countless ways. Whether you prefer them tangy, sweet, smoky, or fiery, these homemade versions offer fresh, preservative-free options that can elevate any dish. With just a blender and a few pantry staples, your kitchen can become a hot sauce haven.

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