Chili Sauce — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips

Choose a chili sauce that has a deep red color and a smooth consistency without any separation of ingredients. Look for sauces that list chili as the first ingredient for a robust flavor.

Avoid sauces that rely heavily on vinegar or sugar, overpowering the chili flavor. Good chili sauce should offer a balance of heat and complexity.

Refrigerate chili sauce after opening to maintain its flavor. Store it in an airtight container to prevent contamination and spoilage. Properly stored, chili sauce can last up to a month in the refrigerator.

Excessive heat can affect the quality of chili sauce, so keep it away from warm areas. It’s best to avoid leaving the lid off, which can dry out the sauce. Ensure the container is tightly sealed to preserve its taste and prevent bacteria growth.

Chili sauce can last for 6 months to 1 year unopened when stored in a cool, dark place. Once opened, it should be refrigerated and used within 1-2 months for the best quality. Always check for signs of spoilage before using.

Leftover chili sauce can be used in a variety of dishes to add a spicy kick. Use it as a condiment for sandwiches, burgers, or wraps, or mix it into stir-fries with vegetables and protein. Chili sauce is also great as a dipping sauce for spring rolls, dumplings, or chicken wings.

Use chili sauce as a base for a marinade for meats or as a glaze for grilled or roasted vegetables. If you have a lot of chili sauce, consider using it in a spicy pasta dish or mixing it into a soup or stew for extra heat. Chili sauce can also be added to a barbecue sauce for a fiery twist, or used in a taco filling with ground meat and vegetables. For a quick snack, try drizzling chili sauce over popcorn or using it as a dip for fries or chips.