12 Best Hot Sauces in America
No longer relegated to Mexican restaurants and Cajun cafes, hot sauces now appear in many American restaurants and fill even more American kitchen cupboards. But which hot sauce is the best hot sauce? Read on to discover 12 top hot sauce contenders that bring both heat and happiness to the table.
1. Tabasco
Tabasco is a classic hot sauce that has been a staple in American households for generations. Made from tabasco peppers, distilled vinegar, and salt, this sauce packs a punch of tangy and spicy flavors. It is versatile and can be drizzled over a variety of dishes, from eggs to burgers.
2. Sriracha
Sriracha is the go-to hot sauce for many Americans, known for its combination of heat and sweetness. Made from chili peppers, vinegar, garlic, sugar, and salt, this sauce adds a kick to stir-fries, noodles, and even cocktails. It has gained widespread popularity and can be found in most grocery stores.
3. Frank’s RedHot
Frank’s RedHot is a favorite among buffalo wing enthusiasts. This sauce, made from aged cayenne peppers, vinegar, water, salt, and garlic, delivers a tangy and spicy flavor. It pairs perfectly with chicken wings, but can also be used to spice up other dishes like chili and tacos.
4. Cholula
Cholula is a Mexican hot sauce that has become a staple in American kitchens. This sauce, made from arbol and piquin peppers, vinegar, salt, and spices, provides a balanced heat that enhances the flavors of any dish. It is particularly delicious on breakfast foods like eggs and potatoes.
5. Louisiana Hot Sauce
Louisiana Hot Sauce is a classic Southern hot sauce that adds a kick to any meal. Made from aged peppers, vinegar, and salt, this sauce has a milder heat compared to others on the list. It is commonly used in Cajun and Creole cooking, but can also be enjoyed on pizza and sandwiches.
6. El Yucateco
El Yucateco is a Mexican hot sauce that brings the heat. Made from habanero peppers, vinegar, salt, and spices, this sauce is not for the faint of heart. It adds a fiery kick to tacos, burritos, and even seafood dishes. It can be found in both red and green varieties.
7. Valentina
Valentina is another Mexican hot sauce that has gained popularity in America. This sauce, made from red peppers, vinegar, water, salt, spices, and xanthan gum, offers a mild heat with a tangy and citrusy flavor. It is commonly used in Mexican cuisine, but can also be enjoyed on pizza and popcorn.
8. Tapatio
Tapatio is a Mexican hot sauce known for its iconic yellow bottle with a sombrero-wearing man on the label. Made from red peppers, salt, garlic, and spices, this sauce delivers a medium heat with a savory flavor. It is a great addition to tacos, enchiladas, and nachos.
9. Secret Aardvark
Secret Aardvark is a unique hot sauce that adds a tropical twist to your meals. Made from habanero peppers, roasted tomatoes, and vinegar, this sauce offers a medium heat with a hint of sweetness. It pairs well with seafood, grilled meats, and even pizza.
10. Marie Sharp’s
Marie Sharp’s is a hot sauce from Belize that has gained a cult following. Made from habanero peppers, carrots, vinegar, onions, lime juice, and garlic, this sauce offers a robust flavor with a medium heat. It is versatile and can be used in marinades, dips, and even salad dressings.
11. Secret Squirrel
Secret Squirrel is a small-batch hot sauce that prides itself on using quality ingredients. Made from jalapeno peppers, vinegar, garlic, turmeric, and spices, this sauce offers a mild heat with a rich and complex flavor. It is perfect for adding a punch to sandwiches, burgers, and even mac and cheese.
12. Queen Majesty
Queen Majesty is a hot sauce brand that creates unique and flavorful blends. Their sauces feature ingredients like ginger, lime, and agave syrup. With varying levels of heat,
