Dave's Hot Chicken Sauce Recipe
Dave’s Hot Chicken Sauce has gained a cult following and for a good reason. It’s the perfect blend of spiciness and flavor that gives any dish an extra kick without overwhelming it. The sauce hails from Dave’s Hot Chicken, a famous place known for its spicy Nashville-style hot chicken.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or Spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Storage Container
- Rubber Spatula
Ingredients
- 1 cup of mayonnaise for a smooth base
- 1/4 cup of hot sauce for a nice kick
- 2 tablespoons of cayenne pepper for heat
- 1 tablespoon of garlic powder for flavor
- 1 tablespoon of paprika for sweetness and color
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder for a savory touch
- 1 tablespoon of sugar to balance the heat
- 1 teaspoon of kosher salt to boost flavor
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper for mild spice
Instructions
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
- Start by taking your mixing bowl and adding the mayonnaise. This will serve as the creamy base for your sauce. Next, pour in the hot sauce, which will provide the initial kick of flavor. After this, mix the mayonnaise and hot sauce well until you achieve a smooth mixture.
Step 2: Spice It Up
- Now, it's time to add the spices that make this sauce stand out. Measure and sprinkle in the cayenne pepper, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. These spices are important, each adding to the rich flavor you want from Dave’s sauce. Mix these ingredients well to make sure the spices are spread evenly in the sauce.
Step 3: Balance the Flavors
- Next, add a tablespoon of sugar to your spice mixture. This little addition will help balance the heat, and provids a hint of sweetness that makes the sauce enjoyable and flavorful. Mix the sauce continuously while adding the sugar until it fully dissolves and blends in.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
- Once everything is mixed, take a small taste of the sauce. This is your opportunity to adjust the seasoning and spice levels to your liking. If you desire more heat, add a touch more cayenne pepper. If it's too spicy, you might add a little extra sugar or mayonnaise.
Step 5: Store Your Sauce
- Finally, transfer the completed sauce to your storage container. An airtight container will keep your sauce fresh for several days. Make sure to label it with the date it was made.
Notes
When making Dave's Hot Chicken Sauce, remember that the secret to a great sauce is balance. Use fresh, good-quality ingredients for the best taste. Change the spice level to your liking, and feel free to try new spices or flavors to make it your own.