Description
Bold, smoky, and customizable, this Cajun Fire Hot Sauce is your new favorite spicy condiment! Made with pantry spices like cayenne, paprika, and garlic, it’s a quick 15-minute recipe that packs major Louisiana-style flavor. Perfect on everything from eggs to grilled meats.
Ingredients
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1/2 cup distilled white vinegar
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1/4 cup water
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3–4 tablespoons cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
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2 tablespoons smoked paprika (or regular)
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1 tablespoon garlic powder
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1 tablespoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
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1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for sweetness)
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1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
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2 tablespoons vegetable oil (optional, for smoother texture)
Instructions
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In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, black pepper, cumin, and brown sugar (if using). Stir well.
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Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and vegetable oil if using.
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Let cool slightly, then carefully blend until smooth using a blender or immersion blender.
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Taste and adjust seasonings to your preference.
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Pour into a clean jar or bottle and let cool completely before sealing.
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Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
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Heat Control: Start with 3 tablespoons of cayenne and add more for extra kick.
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Smoked Paprika adds a deeper flavor, but regular works too.
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Apple Cider Vinegar can be used in place of white vinegar for a different tang.
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For longer storage, freeze in small batches rather than canning, as this recipe is not pH tested for shelf stability.
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Blending hot liquids? Let the mixture cool a few minutes and vent the lid slightly to avoid pressure buildup.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Sauces & Condiments
- Method: Simmer + Blend
- Cuisine: Cajun / Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 25
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 2g0.3g1.6g
- Saturated Fat: 0.3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0g
Keywords: Cajun hot sauce, homemade hot sauce, spicy sauce, Cajun sauce recipe, Louisiana hot sauce, easy hot sauce, Southern condiment, cayenne pepper sauce, smoky hot sauce