Substitutes for Hot Sauce

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Spicy, vinegary chili sauce used as a condiment, marinade ingredient, and flavor booster.

Can't find Hot Sauce in your kitchen? No problem! Below are 4 tested substitutes with exact ratios, perfect for baking, cooking, and everything in between.

Substitute Ratio Best For Dietary
Cayenne Pepper + Vinegar Pinch cayenne + dash vinegar per 1 tsp hot sauce marinades, dips, sauces
Vegan Gluten-Free
Chili Garlic Sauce (sambal) 1:1 replacement Asian dishes, marinades, dips
Vegan Gluten-Free
Sriracha 1:1 replacement all hot sauce applications
Vegan Gluten-Free
Red Pepper Flakes + Vinegar 1/4 tsp flakes + 1/2 tsp vinegar per 1 tsp hot sauce marinades, sauces, pizzas
Vegan Gluten-Free

How to Use

DIY version. Adjust heat with cayenne amount.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best substitute for Hot Sauce?
The best substitute depends on your recipe, but Cayenne Pepper + Vinegar is a reliable choice for most applications. Use Pinch cayenne + dash vinegar per 1 tsp hot sauce.
What's a vegan substitute for Hot Sauce?
Cayenne Pepper + Vinegar is an excellent vegan option. Use Pinch cayenne + dash vinegar per 1 tsp hot sauce.
Can I use any of these substitutes interchangeably?
Most substitutes work well in their recommended use cases, but they may produce slightly different results. The notes above explain the differences and best practices.
Will the taste be affected?
Some substitutes may subtly change the flavor profile of your dish, but they'll work great in the recommended use cases. Start with the suggested ratio and adjust to your taste.

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