10 New Ways To Use Hot Sauce

Whatever you prefer to call it (hot sauce, chile sauce or pepper sauce), this spicy condiment is the savior of every bland meal we've had. It can also cause a frenzied debate when diners are asked to choose their favorite kinds—or rank them in a blind taste test (see the results). In its purest form, hot sauce is made from chiles, vinegar and salt. Some varieties, like Tabasco, are not so subtle and deliver a big hit of immediate heat, while others, such as Sriracha, can be a little sweeter with a thicker consistency. Here are 10 new ways to use your favorite hot sauce:

① Add a few dashes to melted butter plus this addictive Magic Dust and toss with popcorn.

② Fold it into savory oatmeal, like this meaty jook, or Chinese rice porridge, and top with sliced scallions.

③ Combine equal parts maple syrup and hot sauce to make a glaze for the perfect steak.

④ Finish chutney or jam, like this boozy raspberry one, with a spoonful of the hot stuff.

⑤ Add a bit of heat to your caramelized onions with a drop or two. Go the extra mile by turning those onions into a more complex onion dip.

⑥ Toss with mangoes, cucumber and pineapple, and sprinkle with salt for a spicy fruit salad.

⑦ Fold some into all variations of the burger patty.

⑧ Whisk with mustard, vinegar and olive oil for a spicy salad vinaigrette.

⑨ Combine with mayo and lemon zest for an all-purpose sauce, or easiest steak marinade.

⑩ Douse on all five takes of our grilled cheese (while still hot).