What to Eat with Hot Sauce: A Barbecue Enthusiast's Guide

By Avi Green October 06, 2023

Hot sauce has become a staple in the culinary world, especially among barbecue enthusiasts who relish adding a fiery twist to their meals. But have you ever pondered what to eat with hot sauce? Combining it with various foods can elevate your dishes, enhancing flavors while adding a delightful kick. In this article, we will explore numerous food pairings to consider as well as creative uses for hot sauce beyond typical applications.

Whether youre prepping for a backyard barbecue or simply spicing up a family dinner, knowing how to pair hot sauce properly can transform your meals. From meats to veggies, let's embark on this flavor-packed journey!

The Best Foods to Pair with Hot Sauce

When it comes to augmenting the taste of various dishes, the right hot sauce can make all the difference. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Grilled Meats

Grilled meats are a barbecue classic, and they pair exceptionally well with hot sauce. From ribs to chicken wings and steaks, drizzling your favorite hot sauce over these dishes can enhance their smoky flavors. Consider trying hot wing sauce for your chicken wings or a spicy vinegar-based sauce for pulled pork. The options are endless!

2. Spicy Dips and Salsas

Incorporating hot sauce into your dips and salsas can bring them to a whole new level. Think about mixing some hot sauce into guacamole or pico de gallo for a refreshing dip. When you host your next barbecue, serve these along with tortilla chips, and watch them disappear!

3. Veggies and Grilled Corn

Hot sauce doesn't have to only be for proteins! Grilled vegetables can benefit from the addition of a spicy kick. Roasted or grilled corn on the cob slathered with butter and hot sauce makes for a perfect summer side dish. The sweetness of the corn balances beautifully with the heat.

4. Seafood Delights

Seafood lovers rejoice! Hot sauce can enhance the flavors of shrimp, fish tacos, and grilled salmon. Drench your seafood in a tangy hot sauce or create a spicy marinade before grilling. Its a delightful way to complement the natural brininess of the seafood.

Additional Uses for Hot Sauce

While we often think of hot sauce as a condiment, lets take a look at some creative ways to incorporate it into your dishes:

5. Salad Dressings

Want to spice up your salads? Try mixing hot sauce with olive oil, vinegar, and spices for a homemade dressing. This adds an exciting twist to your greens and can inspire you to try new vegetable combinations.

6. Marinades and Brines

Hot sauce makes a wonderful marinade for meats and tofu. Combine hot sauce with garlic, lemon juice, and herbs to make a vibrant marinade that infuses flavor and tenderness into your food.

7. Sauces and Gravies

Adding hot sauce to your sauces and gravies can give them the zing they've been missing. Whether you are preparing a spicy barbecue sauce or elevating a creamy gravy, a dash of hot sauce could make all the difference.

Tips for Choosing Hot Sauce

With a plethora of hot sauces available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. Here are some tips:

8. Understand the Heat Level

Hot sauces vary in their levels of spiciness. Make sure to read the labels and understand their heat levels; you want to choose one that complements your dish rather than overpowers it.

9. Regional Favorites

Different regions have their favorite hot sauces, and each offers a unique flavor profile. From the Cajun flavors of Louisiana hot sauce to the sweetness of Sriracha, dont hesitate to try a variety.

10. Balanced Flavors

Choose hot sauces that have balanced flavors. Some sauces might be very hot but lack depth. Look for those that offer a mix of spices along with the heat.