Smoky Chilli Sauce Recipe
Introduction
This smoky chilli sauce is a vibrant and flavorful condiment that adds a fiery kick to any dish. Roasted to bring out deep, smoky notes, it’s perfect for spicing up grilled meats, sandwiches, or dips.

Ingredients
- 12 red chillies
- 10 garlic cloves
- 1 tbsp olive oil, plus a drizzle extra
- Pinch of caster sugar
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Remove the stems from the chillies and place them on a sheet of foil along with the garlic cloves. Drizzle with a little olive oil, sprinkle the caster sugar and some salt over them.
- Step 2: Lift the sides of the foil and scrunch it closed to create a sealed packet.
- Step 3: Grill the foil packet on the barbecue or roast in an oven at 160°C (140°C fan, gas mark 3) for 30 minutes until the garlic is soft and fragrant.
- Step 4: Carefully open the foil and tip the chillies and garlic into a large pestle and mortar or food processor.
- Step 5: Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and crush or blitz the mixture until it forms a chunky sauce.
Tips & Variations
- For extra smoky flavor, use smoked paprika or chipotle powder when blending the sauce.
- If you prefer less heat, remove some of the chilli seeds before cooking.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a touch of acidity and brightness.
Storage
Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently if desired, but it’s also delicious served cold or at room temperature.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this sauce milder?
Yes, remove some or all of the chilli seeds before roasting to reduce the heat without losing flavor.
What can I use this sauce for?
This sauce is great on grilled meats, roasted vegetables, sandwiches, or as a spicy dip for bread and chips.
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Smoky Chilli Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 1 cup of sauce (about 250 ml) 1x
Description
This smoky chilli sauce recipe combines roasted red chillies and garlic to create a flavorful, mildly spicy condiment perfect for enhancing grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or sandwiches. The sauce is smoky from the grilling or roasting process and has a subtle sweetness balanced by a hint of salt and olive oil richness.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 12 red chillies, stems removed
- 10 garlic cloves
- 1 tbsp olive oil, plus a drizzle extra
- Pinch of caster sugar
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chillies and garlic: Remove the stems from the red chillies. Place the chillies and whole garlic cloves onto a sheet of foil. Drizzle with a little olive oil, sprinkle with a pinch of caster sugar and some salt to taste.
- Wrap and grill or roast: Lift the sides of the foil to create a pouch and scrunch it closed to contain the ingredients. Place the foil pouch on a preheated barbecue grill or in an oven set to 160°C (140°C fan)/Gas mark 3. Cook for 30 minutes, until the garlic is soft and the chillies have softened and developed a smoky aroma.
- Blend the sauce: Carefully transfer the cooked chillies and garlic to a large pestle and mortar or food processor. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and crush or blitz until you achieve a chunky sauce consistency, retaining some texture.
- Store and serve: Transfer the smoky chilli sauce to a clean container and refrigerate. The sauce will keep in the fridge for up to two days. Use it as a spicy condiment to complement your favorite dishes.
Notes
- Use gloves when handling red chillies to avoid skin irritation.
- The sauce can be adjusted in heat by choosing milder or hotter chilli varieties.
- If you don’t have a barbecue, roasting in the oven works equally well to develop the smoky flavor.
- Consume within two days for best freshness and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Global
Keywords: smoky chilli sauce, roasted chilli sauce, garlic chilli sauce, spicy condiment, barbecue sauce, homemade chilli sauce

