Save This vibrant mango and serrano hot sauce brings together the perfect balance of tropical sweetness and fiery heat. I created this recipe after traveling through Mexico and falling in love with fruit-based hot sauces that complement rather than overwhelm food with their heat.
I first made this sauce for a backyard barbecue last summer, and now my friends request that I bring a bottle whenever we get together. The bright flavor profile has converted even those who typically shy away from spicy foods.
Ingredients
- 2 large ripe mangoes: peeled and diced these provide natural sweetness and should yield to gentle pressure when squeezed
- 4 fresh serrano chilies: stemmed and chopped adjust quantity based on your heat preference look for firm bright green peppers
- 3 garlic cloves: peeled adds depth and savory notes choose firm cloves without any green sprouts
- 1 small yellow onion: chopped provides aromatic foundation select firm onions without soft spots
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar: adds tang and helps preserve the sauce use raw unfiltered for best flavor
- 1/4 cup water: adjusts consistency
- Juice of 1 lime: brightens all the flavors use freshly squeezed for best results
- 2 tablespoons agave syrup or honey: balances the heat with additional sweetness
- 1 teaspoon salt: enhances all flavors
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin: adds earthy warmth toast before grinding for maximum flavor
Instructions
- Combine Base Ingredients:
- Add mangoes serranos garlic onion water and apple cider vinegar to a medium saucepan. Ensure everything is evenly distributed in the pan to promote even cooking.
- Simmer The Mixture:
- Bring everything to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Cook for exactly 10 minutes stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon. You'll notice the mangoes softening and the chilies becoming more vibrant in color. The kitchen will fill with a sweet and spicy aroma.
- Cool Slightly:
- Remove the pan from heat and allow the mixture to cool for about 5 minutes. This prevents steam buildup in the blender which could cause splattering of hot liquid.
- Blend To Perfection:
- Transfer the entire contents of the saucepan to a blender. Add lime juice agave syrup salt and cumin. Secure the lid tightly and blend on high speed for 60 to 90 seconds until completely smooth with no visible chunks. The sauce should have a vibrant orange color.
- Taste And Adjust:
- Sample a small amount on a spoon and adjust seasonings. If you want more heat add a pinch of cayenne. For more sweetness add additional agave. For more acidity add more lime juice.
- Adjust Consistency:
- If the sauce seems too thick blend in additional water one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon but pour easily.
- Bottle And Store:
- While still warm pour the sauce into sterilized glass bottles or jars. Allow to cool completely at room temperature before sealing and refrigerating.
Save The serrano chilies are truly the heart of this sauce. I learned from a chef in Oaxaca that removing the seeds creates a cleaner heat that lets the fruit flavors shine through. When my daughter tried this sauce for the first time she said it was like sunshine in a bottle perfect description for this vibrant condiment.
Storage Tips
This hot sauce will maintain peak flavor for about 3 weeks when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The vinegar acts as a natural preservative, but the fresh ingredients limit shelf life. You'll notice the sauce will darken slightly over time – this is normal and doesn't affect taste. For longer storage, you can freeze portions in ice cube trays, then transfer to freezer bags for up to 3 months.
Perfect Substitutions
No mangoes available? Try using peaches or even pineapple for a different tropical twist. Serrano chilies can be replaced with jalapeños for milder heat or habaneros if you prefer something significantly spicier. Just remember to adjust quantities accordingly. If you're avoiding sugar, substitute the agave with a small piece of carrot during cooking – it adds natural sweetness without the glycemic impact.
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant sauce elevates nearly any savory dish. Try drizzling it over fish tacos or grilled shrimp for a tropical flavor boost. It makes an excellent glaze for grilled chicken when mixed with a bit of olive oil. For vegetarian options, it transforms avocado toast or roasted sweet potatoes. My personal favorite is using it as a dipping sauce for crispy plantain chips – the sweet and spicy combination is absolutely addictive.
Seasonal Adaptations
Summer Use perfectly ripe peak season mangoes for maximum sweetness
Winter Substitute frozen mango chunks when fresh aren't available
Spring Add a handful of fresh cilantro for a bright herbal note
Cultural Context
This sauce draws inspiration from both Mexican and Caribbean culinary traditions. In Mexico, fruit-based hot sauces often accompany seafood dishes along the coastal regions, while Caribbean cuisine frequently pairs mango with scotch bonnet peppers. I've adapted these traditions using the more readily available serrano chilies, which provide substantial heat without overwhelming the delicate mango flavor.
Save This hot sauce is a fantastic way to add a burst of flavor to any dish. Enjoy its sweet heat!
Recipe FAQ
- → How spicy is mango serrano hot sauce?
The heat level depends on the amount of serrano chilies and whether you keep the seeds. Remove seeds for a milder flavor, or retain some for extra spice.
- → Can I use a different sweetener instead of agave?
Yes, you can substitute agave syrup with honey, maple syrup, or even a bit of sugar. Adjust to your preferred sweetness.
- → How long does this hot sauce stay fresh?
Store the sauce in sterilized bottles or jars in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 weeks when properly sealed.
- → What dishes pair well with mango serrano hot sauce?
This sauce is delicious on tacos, grilled chicken, fish, or as a dip for roasted vegetables. Try it with rice bowls or salads too.
- → Can I make this sauce less chunky?
To achieve a thinner consistency, simply blend in a small amount of water until the sauce is smooth and pourable.
- → Is this hot sauce vegan and gluten-free?
The primary version is vegan and gluten-free, provided you use agave or maple syrup and check all ingredient labels.