Trader Joes Peri Peri Sauce Recipe

There’s something about Peri Peri sauce.

There’s something about Trader Joes Peri Peri sauce, in particular.

Which is why I’d love to present to you here today a simple recipe to make this up at home. And trust me, it’s not too difficult, nor does it require too many (or abstract) ingredients.

So if you are looking for a rich hot sauce with a complex, deep heat. This one is for you.

It’s spicy, tangy, savory, a little sweet and sour, smooth and quite simply, delicious.

So let’s learn how to make it!

What Do You Need To Make Trader Joes Peri Peri Sauce?

Water

Water helps to dilute and distribute the flavors of the other ingredients, such as the fermented chilies and garlic.

It also allows the sauce to achieve a smoother consistency when blended.

Fermented Chilies

Fermented chilies form the base of this Peri Peri sauce, giving it its characteristic heat and depth of flavor.

Fermentation also adds a unique tanginess to the chilies.

If you’re unable to find fermented chilies, you can use fresh ones, but the taste will differ slightly.

Lemon Juice

Lemon juice adds acidity and brightness to the sauce, balancing out the heat from the chilies.

It’s a crucial ingredient in Peri Peri sauce, providing the tanginess that sets it apart from other hot sauces.

Fresh lemon juice is always the best option for maximum flavor.

Olive Oil

Olive oil adds a silky smoothness to the sauce and helps to meld the flavors together.

It also lends a slight fruity flavor note to the sauce.

Extra virgin olive oil is preferable due to its superior taste and health benefits.

The official recipe calls for Sunflower Oil; but I recommend Olive oil instead – but again another potential swap out to consider.

Garlic

Garlic contributes a savory note to the sauce, offsetting the heat of the chilies and the acidity of the lemon juice.

It’s an essential flavor foundation in many sauces and dishes, and Peri Peri sauce is no exception. Fresh garlic will give the most potent flavor.

Salt

Salt is an essential flavor enhancer, making the other ingredients taste more of themselves.

In this sauce, it also helps to balance the flavors and reduce the perceived acidity and heat.

Dried Chili Flakes

Dried chili flakes add an extra layer of heat to the sauce.

Depending on your spice tolerance, you can adjust the amount.

The added texture from the flakes also gives a different mouthfeel to the sauce.

Xanthan Gum

Xanthan gum is a thickener and stabilizer, helping to emulsify the sauce and prevent separation of the oil and water-based ingredients.

It gives the sauce a smooth and slightly gel-like consistency.

If unavailable, cornstarch could be used, but it will alter the texture.

How To Make Trader Joes Peri Peri Sauce

Step One: Start by chopping up the fermented chilies and garlic cloves. Don’t worry too much about making it perfect—rough chopping is just fine here!

Step Two: Next up, grab a saucepan and let’s toss in the water, your freshly chopped chilies and garlic, and that zesty lemon juice. Turn up the heat until the whole mixture starts to bubble and boil.

Step Three: Now, it’s time to turn the heat down a notch. Let everything simmer for about 10-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the chilies and garlic have softened up nicely.

Step Four: Take your saucepan off the heat and give the mixture a bit of a breather, let it cool down slightly. This also helps to meld the flavors together.

Step Five: Once it’s cooled down a bit, we’re going to move the mixture over to a blender. Add in the olive oil, salt, and dried chili flakes. Let’s blend it until we get a smooth, silky sauce.

Step Six: With your blender on low, we’re going to slowly add the xanthan gum. This magic little ingredient is going to help thicken our sauce and keep everything nicely combined.

Step Seven: Check the consistency of your sauce. If it’s too thin for your liking, sprinkle in a little more xanthan gum. If it’s too thick, add a splash of water or lemon juice. Remember, the sauce will get a bit thicker as it cools down.

Step Eight: Pour your beautifully blended sauce into a glass jar or bottle and pop it into the fridge. It should stay fresh for about a month—if you can resist eating it all before then! Enjoy your homemade Peri Peri sauce.

Expert Tips When Making Trader Joes Peri Peri Sauce

Tip #1: Control the Heat

Not all chilies are created equal.

Some are hotter than others, so consider the type and amount of chilies you use based on your heat preference.

Remember, it’s easier to add more heat later than to try to reduce it!

Tip #2: Fresh Ingredients Matter

Fresh ingredients will always give you a more vibrant and flavorful sauce.

Try to use fresh garlic and lemon juice if you can. The difference in taste is worth it!

Tip #3: Blend Well

Blend your sauce thoroughly for a smooth consistency.

If you prefer a chunkier sauce, you can blend it less, but make sure all the ingredients are well incorporated.

Tip #4: Adjust Consistency

Remember, your sauce will thicken slightly as it cools, so don’t worry if it looks a bit thin when hot.

If you’re unsure, cool a small amount in the fridge to test the final consistency.

Tip #5: Experiment!

Don’t be afraid to tweak the recipe to suit your personal preference.

More garlic, less heat, extra lemon – make this sauce your own!

Enjoy the process of creating your version of Trader Joe’s Peri Peri sauce.

Tip #6: Store Correctly

Store your sauce in an airtight container in the fridge.

It’s a good idea to use glass as it won’t absorb any of the flavors.

Your homemade Peri Peri sauce should last for about a month when properly stored.

What To Eat Trader Joes Peri Peri Sauce With?

Trader Joes Peri Peri Sauce is incredibly versatile and you can literally eat it with almost anything – assuming you like the flavor!

That being said, these are my personal favorites:

Drizzled Over Fries

Trader Joe’s Peri Peri Sauce is an excellent upgrade to your usual ketchup or mayo when it comes to fries.

Drizzle it over hot, crispy fries for a spicy, tangy twist.

A Dipping Sauce For Finger Foods

Calamari, nuggets, mozzarella sticks, you name it – this Peri Peri sauce is perfect for dipping all kinds of finger foods.

It adds a spicy and flavorful punch that’ll elevate these appetizers.

In Sandwiches and Burgers

Want to spice up your sandwiches or burgers?

Add a smear of Peri Peri sauce.

It gives a nice kick and can turn an ordinary sandwich or burger into an extraordinary one!

To Marinate Meats

You can also use this sauce to marinate meats (chicken, pork being particularly good) before grilling or roasting.

The tangy, spicy flavor of the sauce will soak into the meat, making it incredibly flavorful and juicy.

To Top Pizza

Bored with regular pizza sauce?

Top your pizza with some Peri Peri sauce before baking for a spicy change.

It pairs well with a variety of toppings, especially grilled chicken or vegetables.

With Roasted Veggies

Toss your favorite veggies in some Peri Peri sauce before roasting for an added burst of flavor.

It’s an easy way to make your everyday veggies exciting.

With Nachos

Give your nachos a kick by drizzling some Peri Peri sauce over the top.

It adds a flavorful heat that pairs well with the cheesy, crunchy goodness of nachos.

In Potato Salad

Potato salad with a twist, anyone?

Stir some Peri Peri sauce into your potato salad for a spicy upgrade.

It’ll give a tangy heat that balances the creamy, starchy potatoes.