Tuga Pops − Thursday, April 6, 2017, 9 Years ago in Side Recipes
4 out of 5 with 164 ratings

Quick and Easy Piri Piri Sauce Recipe

Add some zing to your meals with this quick and easy piri piri sauce recipe! It's tangy and fantastic on grilled chicken or seafood dishes. You’ll love it!
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5 min 1 servings Very Easy Prep time 5 min Cooking Time n/a

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Give your grilled meals a tasty upgrade with this easy piri piri sauce! Inspired by that famous Nando's flavor, it combines zesty lemon and garlic with a nice kick. Whether you’re basting chicken or seafood, this sauce adds a burst of spice that takes your dinner to the next level. With just a few simple ingredients and a little prep time, you’ll be enjoying deliciousness in no time!


Tips for Success

For a more balanced flavor, consider using a mix of lemon juice and lime juice in equal parts. This will add complexity to the sauce without overpowering the other ingredients.

To enhance the depth of flavor, allow the sauce to sit for at least 30 minutes before using. This resting time allows the garlic and spices to infuse into the oil and vinegar, resulting in a more cohesive taste.

Avoid using too much cayenne pepper if you are sensitive to heat; start with 1/2 tablespoon and adjust to taste. Remember that the spice level can increase after the sauce is mixed and allowed to rest.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use instead of cayenne pepper in the quick and easy piri piri sauce?

If you don't have cayenne pepper, you can substitute it with crushed red pepper flakes for similar heat or use paprika for a milder flavor. Adjust the quantity based on your spice preference.

How should I store leftover piri piri sauce?

Leftover piri piri sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze it in ice cube trays for longer storage, then transfer the cubes to a freezer bag for up to three months.

What can I do if my piri piri sauce is too salty?

If your sauce turns out too salty, you can balance it out by adding a bit more lemon juice or vinegar to dilute the saltiness. Another option is to add a little bit of sugar or honey to cut through the salt.

Recommended Drink Pairings

  • Sauvignon Blanc: Its crisp acidity complements the tanginess of the lemon juice and vinegar.
  • Pale Ale: The hoppy bitterness balances the heat from the cayenne pepper and chili flakes.
  • Sparkling Water: The carbonation refreshes the palate and enhances the meal's spiciness.
  • Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai provide a nice contrast to the bold flavors of the sauce.
  • Ginger Beer: Its sweetness and spice can counterbalance the heat while adding a refreshing touch.

Ingredients

4 tablespoons (60g) of lemon juice5 tablespoons (75g) of olive oil1/4 cup (60ml) of vinegar1 tablespoon (8g) of cayenne pepper1 tablespoon (8g) of garlic, minced1 tablespoon (8g) of paprika1 teaspoon (5g) of salt1 tablespoon (8g) of chili flakes

Equipment:

Small bowlWhiskBrush

With all your ingredients and equipment gathered, you are ready to get started!

Directions

  1. Combine all ingredients in a small bowl and whisk together.
  2. Brush on chicken or seafood before grilling or baking.

Adapted from a Recipe by: recipezazz.com

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Calories
713 kcal
Fat
73 g
Carbs
17 g
Protein
3 g

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Reviews (4)

Jody Driscoll
Jody Driscoll
I did this recipe on chicken. It was delicious! There is a recipe for sauce I'm looking for that I had in Toronto. The take out place would brush the sauce on the chicken after it was cooked. It had olive oil as well it was red on the bottom of the sauce when it divided when left sitting. I use to order extra sauce. Do you know the recipe for this sauce??
5 Years ago, Friday, January 14, 2022

Tuga Pops
Tuga Pops
5 Years ago, Friday, January 14, 2022

Leigh-Ann
Leigh-Ann
Can you please let me know what type of vinegar is required for this recipe, is it plain white vinegar?
5 Years ago, Saturday, July 17, 2021

Tuga Pops
Tuga Pops
Hi Leigh-Ann, we always just use plain white vinegar here at home for this.

5 Years ago, Saturday, July 17, 2021

Tuga Pops

Joined 11 Years ago n/a
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