Copycat Nando’s PERi PERi Sauce

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chilies: If you’re using dried African Bird’s Eye chilies (or your choice of dried hot chilies), you’ll want to soak them in hot water for 15-20 minutes to soften. Once softened, remove the stems and seeds. If you’re using fresh chilies, chop them up finely.
2. Blend the Ingredients: In a blender or food processor, combine the soaked and prepared chilies (or fresh chilies), garlic, onion powder, paprika, cumin, coriander, brown sugar, and lemon juice. Add in the red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little more olive oil or water to reach your desired consistency.
3. Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning. If you want it spicier, add more chili flakes or fresh chilies. For a tangier sauce, you can add more lemon juice or vinegar. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a bit more brown sugar or honey.
4. Let it Rest: For the best flavor, let the sauce sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. You can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. The longer it sits, the more intense the flavors will become!
5. Serve and Enjoy: Use your homemade PERi PERi sauce as a marinade for chicken, beef, or lamb, or drizzle it over roasted vegetables. It’s also fantastic as a dipping sauce for fries or a topping for burgers and sandwiches.

How to Use Your Copycat PERi PERi Sauce

• As a Marinade: The tangy, spicy sauce makes an incredible marinade for chicken, pork, or even tofu. Simply marinate your protein for at least an hour (or overnight for maximum flavor) before grilling, roasting, or baking.
• On Grilled Meat: PERi PERi sauce is especially delicious on grilled meats. Brush it on grilled chicken, lamb chops, or shrimp right before serving for a burst of flavor.
• As a Dip: The sauce works beautifully as a dip for crispy fries, roasted sweet potatoes, or grilled vegetables. It also adds a bold kick when drizzled on salads or inside wraps and sandwiches.
• On Pizza: If you love spicy pizza, drizzle a bit of PERi PERi sauce on top of your pizza after it’s baked for a fiery, flavorful kick.
• In Stir-Fries: For a spicy twist on stir-fries, add a tablespoon or two of PERi PERi sauce to your wok. It pairs wonderfully with chicken, beef, or vegetables.

Why This Copycat Version is Better than Store-Bought

Making this Copycat Nando’s PERi PERi Sauce at home gives you control over the ingredients and the ability to adjust the flavor to your liking. Many store-bought versions are often loaded with preservatives, added sugars, and artificial flavors. By preparing it yourself, you ensure the sauce is as fresh and healthy as possible, without compromising on taste.

Additionally, the homemade version allows you to tweak the heat level to suit your personal taste. Whether you prefer a mild, tangy sauce or a fiery one, you can add more or less chili to get it just right.

Conclusion

If you’re a fan of bold, spicy flavors, Copycat Nando’s PERi PERi Sauce is a must-try recipe that brings the heat and tang to any meal. Whether you’re grilling, roasting, or simply looking to spice up your favorite dish, this sauce is the perfect addition. It’s easy to make, customizable, and guaranteed to satisfy your cravings for that distinctive, fiery flavor. So, gather your ingredients, whip up a batch, and enjoy the taste of Nando’s in the comfort of your own home!