If you’ve ever found yourself dreaming of that fiery, tangy, and absolutely irresistible PERi-PERi sauce from Nando’s, you’re in for a treat! This homemade copycat recipe brings the heat, flavor, and magic of the original sauce right into your kitchen. And guess what? It’s super easy to make, using just a handful of pantry staples.
Are you ready to spice up your meals like never before? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic Flavor: Bold, zesty, and with just the right amount of heat, this sauce captures the essence of Nando’s iconic blend.
- Versatile: Use it as a marinade, a dipping sauce, or drizzle it over grilled meats, veggies, and even sandwiches!
- Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level to suit your taste buds—mild or mouth-tinglingly spicy!
- Quick and Easy: With just a few steps, you’ll have a bottle of delicious homemade PERi-PERi sauce ready to go.
What Does PERi-PERi Sauce Taste Like?
This sauce is a flavor explosion! It’s tangy from the red wine vinegar, smoky and slightly sweet with a garlicky punch, and of course, spicy from the chili peppers. The olive oil gives it a silky texture that coats whatever you add it to. The taste is addictive and guaranteed to leave you craving more!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious sauce:
- 4 red chili peppers (fresh or dried)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
Tools You’ll Need
- A blender or food processor
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A small saucepan
Ingredient Substitutions and Additions
- Chili Peppers: Swap red chilies with cayenne peppers or bird’s eye chilies for extra heat. For a milder sauce, use fewer chilies or opt for sweet red peppers.
- Garlic: Feel free to add more garlic if you’re a fan of its bold flavor.
- Red Wine Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar can be used as substitutes.
- Add-ons: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a pinch of smoked paprika adds an extra layer of depth.
How to Make Copycat Nando’s PERi-PERi Sauce
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
- Mince the garlic and chop the chili peppers (remove seeds for a milder sauce).
Step 2: Blend It All Together
- In a blender or food processor, combine the chilies, garlic, olive oil, and red wine vinegar. Blend until smooth.
Step 3: Simmer to Perfection
- Pour the blended mixture into a small saucepan and simmer on low heat for 10–15 minutes. This helps meld the flavors and thickens the sauce slightly.
Step 4: Cool and Store
- Allow the sauce to cool before transferring it to a sterilized jar or bottle. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
What to Serve with PERi-PERi Sauce
- Grilled Chicken: Drizzle or use as a marinade.
- Roasted Vegetables: Toss veggies in the sauce before or after roasting.
- Sandwiches and Wraps: Spread on bread or use as a dip.
- Seafood: Pair with grilled shrimp or fish for a spicy kick.
Pro Tips for the Perfect PERi-PERi Sauce
- Control the Heat: Start with fewer chilies and add more to taste.
- Consistency: For a thicker sauce, simmer longer or add a touch of tomato paste.
- Flavor Boost: Let the sauce sit in the fridge overnight—flavors deepen as it rests.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- Freeze: Freeze in small portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this sauce less spicy?
Absolutely! Remove the seeds from the chilies or use fewer chilies to tone down the heat.
Can I use dried chilies instead of fresh?
Yes! Rehydrate dried chilies in warm water for 10 minutes before blending.
How long does homemade PERi-PERi sauce last?
When stored properly in the fridge, it should last up to 2 weeks.
Conclusion
Making your own Copycat Nando’s PERi-PERi Sauce is a game-changer! It’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for elevating countless dishes. Whether you’re marinating chicken, jazzing up veggies, or just looking for a spicy dip, this sauce has you covered.
P.S. If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to check out my other sauce recipes, including homemade chimichurri and garlic aioli. Share your creations on Pinterest, and let me know how it turned out in the comments below!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 100
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Protein: 1g
