Ghanaian Spicy Pepper Sauce

Ingredients

While the original Indian Red Chutney is typically made with a combination of red chilies, garlic, and spices, the Ghanaian Spicy Pepper Sauce incorporates local ingredients and flavors. The Ghanaian version uses a variety of hot peppers, such as Scotch bonnet or habanero peppers, which are commonly found in Ghanaian cuisine. Additionally, the sauce includes traditional Ghanaian spices like ginger and onions, giving it a distinct flavor profile that sets it apart from the Indian original. We alse have the original recipe for Red Chutney, so you can check it out.

• 10 Scotch bonnet peppers (or habanero peppers), seeds removed 10 Scotch bonnet peppers (or habanero peppers), seeds removed
• 1 medium onion, roughly chopped 1 medium onion, roughly chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic 4 cloves of garlic
• 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, peeled and roughly chopped 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, peeled and roughly chopped
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 60 kcal / 251 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 4g, 0.3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 6g, 3g
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a blender or food processor, combine the peppers, onion, garlic, and ginger. Blend until smooth.
2. 2.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the blended pepper mixture and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. 3.
   Stir in the paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. 4.
   Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice. Let the sauce cool before transferring it to a sterilized jar or bottle.
5. 5.
   Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Scotch bonnet peppers — Handle with caution as they are extremely hot. Wear gloves while removing the seeds to avoid skin irritation.
• Ginger — Use fresh ginger for the best flavor. Peel the ginger using a spoon or a peeler before chopping.

Tips & Tricks

• Adjust the amount of peppers according to your spice tolerance.
• For a milder version, remove the seeds from the peppers before blending.
• Add a teaspoon of honey or sugar if you prefer a slightly sweet and spicy flavor.
• Experiment with different types of hot peppers to customize the heat level.
• Use this Spicy Pepper Sauce as a marinade for grilled meats or as a condiment for rice dishes.

Serving advice

Serve the Ghanaian Spicy Pepper Sauce alongside traditional Ghanaian dishes like Jollof Rice, Waakye, or Kelewele. It also pairs well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a spicy dip for plantain chips.

Presentation advice

Transfer the Spicy Pepper Sauce to a small serving bowl or jar with a lid. Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika or a few slices of fresh chili peppers for an attractive presentation.