I’m checking my garden journal to see which day I will sow my turnip seeds, and the very thought of turnip greens and cornbread makes my mouth water. I am a true Southerner, and I’ll need some pepper and vinegar sauce to sprinkle over my greens. Therefore, I am also planning to plant some pe ppers to make that sauce.

Jalapeno Peppers
Bonnie Plants

Southern Living  printed a good, Southern recipe for pepper sauce:

Image Credit: Southern Living

“To make this treasured condiment, you’ll need just six ingredients:

• Small jalapeño chiles: Medium heat peppers with a bright green color.
• Red Fresno chiles: Small peppers often mistaken for red jalapeños. Slightly sweeter and spicier than jalapeños.
• Banana wax pepper: A yellow pepper with a sweet, mild flavor.
• White vinegar: A sharply acidic vinegar that picks up the flavor of the chiles.
• water

Image Credit: Southern Living

How To Make Southern Hot-Pepper Vinegar

“”In just a couple of short steps, you’ll have hot-pepper vinegar on hand to use throughout the coming months. To make it:

• Step 1. Split peppers lengthwise and place into a canning jar, glass bottle, or airtight container.
• Step 2. Bring vinegar, water, and garlic to a boil. Discard garlic; pour liquid over peppers.
• Step 3. Cool completely, then cover and chill at least 8 hours before using.

Variations for Southern Hot-Pepper Vinegar

“If you’re looking to switch it up, keep these variations in mind:

• Chiles: Change up the type of chiles based on what you have on hand, or the level of spiciness you prefer. Serrano chiles, tabasco red peppers, or Thai chiles would all be good here.
• Mix it up: Add peppercorns, other whole spices, or sliced onion for a more nuanced flavor.
• Type of vinegar: While we call for white vinegar, you can also use white wine vinegar or Champagne vinegar for a sweeter flavor profile.

Ways To Use Southern Hot-Pepper Vinegar

“This spicy vinegar is a great condiment to use anytime a dish needs a hint of acidity (and spiciness). We love to use it on fried chicken, crispy potatoes, pulled pork, stews, collard greens, field peas, oysters, and more.

“The colorful presentation and long shelf life also makes this hot-pepper vinegar a lovely food gift.

“Store prepared vinegar in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to six months. Discard if the vinegar becomes cloudy or develops an off smell. If sealing using traditional canning methods, this vinegar can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to two years.