Nashville Hot Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Nashville Hot Sauce is a fiery, flavorful condiment that originates from Tennessee and is the hallmark of Nashville hot chicken. Made with cayenne pepper, brown sugar, and a few pantry staples, it delivers a bold, spicy-sweet kick that enhances fried chicken, fries, or even roasted vegetables. It’s quick to make and incredibly versatile for spice lovers.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

cayenne pepperbrown sugarsmoked paprikagarlic powdersaltblack pepperhot sauce (optional for extra heat)pickle juice (optional for tang)neutral oil (like vegetable or canola oil)

directions

Heat the neutral oil in a small saucepan over medium heat until hot but not smoking.

Remove from heat and immediately whisk in cayenne pepper, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

If desired, stir in a splash of hot sauce and pickle juice for extra heat and acidity.

Let the sauce sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Brush or drizzle the hot sauce over freshly fried chicken, or serve on the side for dipping.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about ¾ cup of sauce, enough for 6-8 pieces of chicken.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 3 minutesTotal time: 8 minutes

Variations

Adjust the cayenne level for more or less heat.

Add honey for a sweet-spicy profile.

Use chipotle powder for a smoky twist.

Stir in butter for a richer flavor and smoother texture.

storage/reheating

Store leftover sauce in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Is Nashville Hot Sauce extremely spicy?

It’s quite spicy, but you can control the heat by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper.

Can I make it without oil?

Oil is essential for the traditional texture and flavor, but you can experiment with butter or a lighter oil.

Does it have to be served with fried chicken?

No, it also tastes great on grilled meats, fries, or even as a spicy dip.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, it keeps well in the fridge and the flavor deepens as it sits.

Is pickle juice necessary?

It’s optional, but it adds a nice tang that balances the heat.

Can I use olive oil?

Neutral oils are preferred so the spices can shine, but light olive oil can be used in a pinch.

Conclusion

Nashville Hot Sauce is a bold, addictive condiment that brings Southern heat to your table. With just a few ingredients and a couple of minutes, you can recreate this iconic flavor at home. Perfect for spice lovers and fried chicken fans alike, it’s a must-try for anyone who enjoys a fiery kick in their food.

Print