Hot sauce

Hot sauce is a liquid or semi-liquid preparation used to add flavor, aroma, and a touch of spiciness to various dishes in world cuisine. It is primarily made with fresh, dried, or powdered chili peppers, combined with other ingredients such as vinegar, garlic, salt, spices, and in some cases fruits or vegetables, depending on the region and recipe.

The origin of hot sauce dates back to the pre-Columbian cultures of America, where chili peppers were a fundamental element in the diet of peoples such as the Aztecs and Mayans. Subsequently, with the global expansion of the chili pepper, hot sauces were incorporated into cuisines all over the world, adapting to local tastes.

Properties: In addition to providing a distinctive and stimulating flavor, hot sauce can have health benefits thanks to capsaicin, the active compound in chili peppers which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and may help to activate the metabolism. However, it is recommended to consume it in moderation, especially for people with digestive sensitivity.

In the Hispanic world, this ingredient goes by different names depending on the country and region. Among the most common synonyms are spicy chili pepper sauce, chili pepper sauce, chili sauce, picante, or simply chili.