Smoky Chilli Sauce Recipe
Introduction
This smoky chilli sauce is a vibrant and flavorful condiment that adds a spicy kick to any dish. Roasted to bring out its smoky depth, it’s perfect for barbecues, marinades, or simply as a dipping sauce.

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 olive oil, sprinkle the caster sugar and add a pinch of salt.
- Step 2: Lift the sides of the foil and scrunch them together to create a sealed pouch. Grill the pouch on the barbecue or roast in the oven at 160°C (140°C fan/gas mark 3) for 30 minutes until the garlic is soft.
- Step 3: Carefully open the foil and transfer the chillies and garlic into a large pestle and mortar or food processor. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and crush or blitz to create a chunky sauce.
Tips & Variations
- For a milder sauce, remove some or all of the seeds from the chillies before roasting.
- Use smoked paprika to enhance the smoky flavor if you’re not using a barbecue for roasting.
- Add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar for a tangy twist.
Storage
Store the smoky chilli sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Before using, give it a good stir. Reheat gently if adding to warm dishes but avoid boiling to preserve the fresh flavors.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chillies for this sauce?
Fresh chillies give the best flavor and texture, but frozen chillies can be used in a pinch. Thaw and drain them well before proceeding with the recipe.
How long does the sauce keep in the fridge?
This sauce keeps well for up to two days in the fridge. Because it contains fresh garlic and no preservatives, it’s best consumed quickly for safety and flavor.
PrintSmoky Chilli Sauce Recipe
A vibrant and smoky chilli sauce bursting with the robust flavors of roasted red chillies and garlic, perfect as a spicy condiment to enhance your meals. This easy-to-make sauce combines smoky notes from barbecue grilling or oven roasting with a touch of sweetness from caster sugar, delivering a beautifully chunky texture achieved by crushing the ingredients together.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 1 cup of sauce 1x
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 12 red chillies, stems removed
- 10 garlic cloves
- 1 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- Pinch of caster sugar
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chillies and Garlic: Remove the stems from the red chillies and place them on a sheet of foil along with the garlic cloves. Drizzle a little olive oil over the ingredients, sprinkle a pinch of caster sugar and add some salt to taste. Wrap the foil by lifting the sides and scrunching it closed to seal in all the flavors.
- Grill or Roast: Cook the foil parcel on a preheated barbecue grill or place it in the oven at 160°C (140°C fan oven, gas mark 3) for 30 minutes. The goal is to soften the garlic and char the chillies slightly to bring out a smoky flavor.
- Crush or Blitz: Transfer the cooked chillies and garlic into a large pestle and mortar or food processor. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and crush or pulse until you achieve a chunky sauce consistency.
- Store: Place the smoky chilli sauce into a clean container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to two days, ready to spice up your dishes.
Notes
- Adjust the number of chillies to control the heat level according to your taste.
- If you don’t have a barbecue, the oven method works perfectly to achieve the smoky flavor.
- Use a food processor for convenience, or a pestle and mortar for a more rustic texture.
- The sauce is best consumed within two days to enjoy its fresh, vibrant flavors.
- This sauce pairs well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a spicy dip.
Keywords: smoky chilli sauce, spicy sauce, barbecue sauce, roasted chilli sauce, garlic chilli sauce

