Just a quick whir in the blender, and I can have my very own homemade Peri Peri Sauce. But let me warn you, these flavors are very addictive!
I love making my own sauces, they’re so much better than bottled stuff. Some of my top spicy sauces are Salsa Taquera, Harissa Sauce and Jamaican Jerk Sauce.
This latest addition is right up there with the best of them.
What is Peri Peri?
Peri Peri, also known as Piri Piri or Pili Pili, is an exotic, fiery chili sauce with deep African and Portuguese roots. This delicious blend is famous for its perfect combination of heat and flavor. Traditionally, African bird’s eye chilis are used in the sauce. They lend the sauce their local name, which is derived from the Swahili word pilipili, which means “pepper”. Where it was first created is unclear, but it does seem most likely that the original sauce was created by the Portuguese from African peppers. More recently, the restaurant chain Nando’s has helped Peri Peri become a household name. Originating in South Africa, Nando’s specializes in Portuguese-African cuisine, with Peri Peri chicken being its signature dish. Nowadays, bottled Peri Peri Sauce is common on supermarket shelves. But as with most foods, homemade is always best!
Regarding Bird’s Eye Chilis
As mentioned, African bird’s eye chilis are traditional. If you can find those, use them. A great substitute is Thai bird’s eye chilis, which are readily available in most local Asian grocery stores. If you can’t find either of these varieties, other hot red peppers can be used. Take note that my recipe uses Thai bird’s eye chilis. If you are using other chili peppers, you will want to adjust the amounts based on how hot they are. African bird’s eye peppers are 2-3x hotter, so if that’s what you have, start with 2 or 3 and taste before adding more. Most chili peppers available in supermarkets will be less hot than Thai.
Ingredients Needed
Thai Red Bird Chilis – Gives the signature heat. Shallots – Makes a sweet base. Garlic – Great aromatic. Red Bell Pepper – Gives sweetness and color. Tomato Paste and White Wine Vinegar – Makes it a little tangy. Lemon – I used both juice and rind. Herbs and Seasonings – Bay leaves, dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt. Olive Oil – Brings everything together.
Easy Peri Peri Sauce Recipe
I place all the ingredients except the olive oil in a blender or food processor. Then, I blend everything until it reaches a fine consistency. I add in olive oil… and again blend until the oil emulsifies. I always refrigerate in an airtight container until ready to use.
Variations
Chili Variations – I like to experiment with different types of chilis to achieve varying heat levels. Herb Variations – Sometimes, I substitute dried oregano with fresh oregano or add other herbs like thyme, basil, or cilantro for different flavors. Char the Peppers – For an even deeper taste, I grill or roast the red bell peppers before adding them to the sauce. Swap the Paprika – If you’re not into smoky flavors, you can use regular paprika in place of smoked.
How to Use Homemade Peri Peri Sauce
My favorite use for Peri Peri sauce is as a marinade. It goes great with pork chops, steaks like skirt or flank, shrimp and, of course, chicken. Stay tuned, our next post is Peri Peri Chicken. Don’t discard the used marinade! I simmer it in a saucepan for 5-10 minutes, then it makes a great dipping sauce for my marinated meat. It’s also a wonderful dipping sauce for things like Fries, onion rings and chicken tenders. Or use it like a salsa. Dip tortilla chips or drizzle it on Tacos or Burrito Bowls. It is a great flavor booster for soups or beans. Add in a tablespoon at a time until you achieve your desired taste. Add some spice to your life by mixing up a batch of this amazing Peri Peri Sauce. Once you try it, you’ll see why its popularity is spreading around the globe! Make sure to save or pin this recipe so you always know where to find it. And don’t forget to subscribe to GypsyPlate, we’re always cooking up new recipes for you!
Peri Peri Sauce, on our Gypsy Plate… enjoy!
Try these other easy and delicious condimentsRemoulade SaucePeruvian Green SauceSriracha MayoUtah Fry SauceHollandaise SauceGarlic AioliTzatzikiChili Oil
