Spicy Carrot Habanero Dipping Sauce
Elevate your culinary experience with this Spicy Carrot Habanero Dipping Sauce. Featuring a delightful blend of sweet carrots and fiery habanero peppers, this sauce strikes a perfect balance between heat and flavor. Its thick, creamy texture makes it not only an excellent condiment for burgers but also a vibrant dip for veggies or crispy snacks. Packed with the goodness of fresh carrots and a zesty kick from lime juice, this sauce will make you feel like you're savoring something wholesome while enjoying a bold flavor explosion. Perfect for spice lovers looking to add a unique twist to their meals!
16
Servings
10
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Onion
1 (chopped)
Garlic cloves
2 (chopped)
Vegetable oil
1 tablespoon (for sautéing)
Carrot
1 cup (chopped)
Water
2 cups (for cooking)
Habanero peppers
4 (minced, seeds and stems removed)
Fresh lime juice
3 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
White vinegar
2 tablespoons
Salt
1 teaspoon
Instructions
1
In a medium skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until both are soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
2
Add the chopped carrots and water to the skillet. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
3
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and allow it to simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and easily pierced with a fork. Remove the skillet from heat and let it cool slightly.
4
Transfer the carrot mixture to a blender. Add the minced habanero peppers, fresh lime juice, white vinegar, and salt. Blend on high speed until the mixture is completely smooth and well combined.
5
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or lime juice to suit your preference.
6
Pour the sauce into a clean jar or container. Allow it to cool to room temperature before sealing and refrigerating. It can be stored for up to two weeks in the fridge.
Nutrition Information
0.3g
Fat
1.75g
Carbs
0.1g
Protein
0.2g
Fiber
0.5g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spicy Carrot Habanero Dipping Sauce?
It is a thick and creamy condiment made from a blend of sweet carrots, fiery habanero peppers, lime juice, and aromatics like garlic and onion.
How spicy is this carrot habanero sauce?
This sauce is quite spicy as it uses four habanero peppers, though the natural sweetness of the carrots helps balance the heat.
Can I make the sauce less spicy?
Yes, you can reduce the number of habanero peppers or ensure all seeds and membranes are removed to lower the heat level.
Is this dipping sauce vegan?
Yes, all ingredients including vegetables, oil, and vinegar are plant-based, making it 100% vegan.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 10 calories.
How should I store the Spicy Carrot Habanero Sauce?
Store the sauce in a clean, sealed jar or airtight container in the refrigerator.
How long does the sauce stay fresh in the fridge?
When properly refrigerated, this sauce can be stored for up to two weeks.
What are the best foods to pair with this sauce?
It is excellent as a burger topping, a dip for fresh vegetables, or a zesty condiment for crispy snacks and tacos.
Does this recipe contain gluten?
No, the ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields approximately 16 servings.
Can I use a different type of oil?
Yes, while vegetable oil is recommended for its neutral flavor, you can use canola or light olive oil.
Do I need to peel the carrots?
It is recommended to peel or thoroughly scrub the carrots to ensure a smooth texture and clean flavor.
Can I substitute the white vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute, though it will slightly alter the flavor profile.
Should the habanero seeds be removed?
Yes, the recipe suggests removing the seeds and stems before mincing the peppers to manage the heat.
How long do the carrots need to boil?
Carrots should be simmered for 15-20 minutes until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
What type of blender should I use?
A high-speed blender is best to achieve a completely smooth and creamy consistency.
Can I use bottled lime juice?
Freshly squeezed lime juice is preferred for the best flavor, but bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch.
Is this sauce keto-friendly?
Yes, with only 1.75g of carbohydrates per serving, it fits well within a keto or low-carb diet.
Can I freeze this sauce?
You can freeze it for up to 3 months, though the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Why do I need to sauté the onions and garlic?
Sautéing them first helps to soften their sharp raw flavor and creates a more aromatic base for the sauce.
Is there any added sugar in this recipe?
No, the sauce contains only 0.5g of natural sugar from the vegetables.
Can I use this as a marinade?
Absolutely! It works great as a spicy marinade for chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
How much salt is in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of salt, which can be adjusted to your personal taste.
Can I add other spices to this sauce?
Yes, cumin or coriander can be added if you want to give the sauce an earthy undertone.
What makes the texture creamy without dairy?
The combination of cooked, blended carrots and a small amount of oil creates a naturally emulsified, creamy texture.
Does the sauce need to be cooked?
Yes, the carrots, onions, and garlic must be cooked to ensure the right texture and flavor development.
Can I use dried habanero peppers?
It is best to use fresh peppers for the vibrant flavor and moisture they provide to the sauce.
Is this sauce healthy?
Yes, it is low in fat and calories and packed with nutrients from fresh carrots and lime juice.
What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
You can thin it out by adding a small amount of water or extra lime juice one teaspoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
Can I use a food processor instead of a blender?
A food processor can be used, but the resulting sauce may have a slightly grainier texture than one made in a blender.