You probably already know the satisfying feeling of having your taste buds explode with flavor and heat from your favorite hot sauces... But have you ever tried pairing hot sauce with fruit?
While it may sound like an odd combination at first, trust us when we say it’s a game changer (Not to mention it is a little healthier than going for a burger).
So today we’ll be exploring the best fruits that complement hot sauce and elevate your snacking experience.
Let's dive right into the fruit bowl!
Mangos
First up are mangos. The sweetness and juiciness of the fruit provide a perfect contrast to the spiciness of the hot sauce. Mango also has a tropical flavor that pairs well with many spicy dishes, making it a popular ingredient in Latin American and Caribbean cuisine.
- Try dipping perfectly ripe mango slices in hot sauce or adding chunks of mango to your favorite spicy salsa recipe.
Pineapple
Next on the list is pineapple. Another juicy tropical fruit that pairs well with the heat of hot sauce. Pineapple is a great addition to spicy dishes because it adds a sweetness that balances out the heat. It’s also high in vitamin C and has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Try grilling pineapple wedges and topping them with a drizzle of hot sauce for a truly delicious snack. Controversially popular on social media, pineapple also tastes amazing on pizza... along with your favorite hot sauce!
Watermelon
If you’re feeling adventurous, try combining hot sauce with watermelon. This might seem like a strange pairing, but trust us when we say it’s pretty amazing. The sweetness and juiciness of watermelon pairs well with the heat of the sauce, and it’s a refreshing snack on a hot day.
- Cut up chunks of watermelon and drizzle hot sauce on top, or mix hot sauce with some lime juice for a tangy twist.
Avocado
Another fruit that pairs well with hot sauce is avocado. Avocado has a creamy texture that complements the spiciness of hot sauce. It also has healthy fats that make it a great snacking option.
- Slice ripe avocado and top it with hot sauce, or mix hot sauce with mashed avocado for a spicy guacamole. It's also great on some toast with a couple of dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
Canalope
Finally, don’t forget about cantaloupe. This juicy melon has a subtle sweetness that makes it a great companion to spicy hot sauces. Cantaloupe is also packed with vitamins and minerals, making it an excellent addition to your diet.
- Chop up some fresh cantaloupe and sprinkle on some hot sauce for a unique, flavorful snack.
Other Fruits That Pair Well With Hot Sauce
Aside from the fruits mentioned above, there are plenty of other options that pair well with hot sauce.
In fact, most fruits in general pair well with hot sauce. The ones we talked about above are our personal favorites, however, you can also try:
Plantains
Black Cherries
Blackberries
Tomatoes
Citrus (Lemon, lime, etc.)
Raspberries
As you can see, there are lots of different fruits that go well with hot sauce! Whether you’re looking for something sweet or something tangy, these fruits will definitely take your snacking experience to the next level.
Hot Sauces To Try With Your Fruits
Now that you know which fruits pair well with hot sauce, it’s time to pick out the perfect sauce. Hot sauces come in all different flavors and levels of heat, so there’s something for everyone.
Here are a couple of our favorite hot sauces that are perfect for pairing with your fruit snacks:
Crack of Don
Inspired by a Navy veteran, and hot sauce lover, Crack of Don goes great on some fruit. Using the radiant Yellow Fatalii pepper and a hint of sun-ripened, crushed pineapple, the flavors burst in your mouth.
Peach Habanero
Winner of multiple hot sauce awards, Peach Habanero Delight is a tropical fruity hot sauce. It's blended with mild peppers, red onion, and habaneros, for a unique island flavor.
Zing
A simple mild hot sauce, Zing, uses red peppers, sugar, and vinegar. This versatile sauce can be used as a glaze or dipping sauce for all of your favorite fruits.
What's Your Favorite Hot Sauce & Fruit Pairing
In conclusion, hot sauce is not just for savory dishes. Trying these fruity combos will prove that hot sauce can add an extra kick to any type of food, including fruit! Adding some of these fruits to your snack game can enhance flavors and make a deliciously unique experience.
Once you've tried a couple of combos out, let us know what your favorite hot sauce and fruit pairing is!
Bon Appetit!