Hot Pepper Vinegar

Hot Pepper Vinegar

If you find yourself with more hot peppers than you can use you might want to use some to make hot pepper vinegar. In just a few weeks you’ll have vinegar that is spicy and great to add to salsa, chili, marinades and more.

To make the pepper vinegar you’ll need a clean jar with a tight-fitting lid, 5% acidity vinegar (it tells you that on the label) and hot peppers. I like using cider vinegar. You can also add garlic cloves, if you like. Always remember to wear rubber gloves when handling hot peppers. Wash peppers and cut a couple of slits in each one. That will allow the vinegar to fill up the peppers. Place peppers in the jar and add peeled garlic cloves, if desired. Pour in vinegar to completely cover the peppers. Put the lid on the jar and tip the jar back and forth a few times. As you do this vinegar will fill up the peppers. You’ll likely have to add more vinegar. Fill jar so peppers are covered. Put lid back on the jar. Check the next day as the vinegar will continue to fill the peppers. Add more vinegar, if needed. Leave the jar in a cool, dark place for a couple of weeks. Strain out the peppers. I usually discard them- but they are still edible. Save them if you like. For extra clear vinegar pour strained vinegar through a coffee filter or several layers of cheesecloth to filter. Pour into a bottle and enjoy!! You can also leave a pepper or two in the bottle for a more decorative appearance. Makes nice gifts, too.