This fiery elixir adds depth, acidity, and flavor to a wide range of dishes.
But how long can you keep that bottle of hot sauce in your fridge?
This popular condiment can spoil like any other food product.
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Understanding its shelf life and recognizing signs of spoilage can help you make the most of your favorite sauces.
What Is Hot Sauce?
Additional components such as garlic, onion, sugar, or spices bring their own distinctive touches.
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Hot sauces can vary in texture, being either thick or thin, and can be fermented or fresh.
Always check the label for specific storage instructions.
Storing hot sauce properly is the best way to maintain its flavor and quality.
Ensure your bottle is tightly sealed to maintain an airtight environment, and clean around the cap before sealing.
When it doubt, transfer the sauce to an airtight container.
What Is the Shelf Life of Hot Sauce?
Unopened bottles of store-bought hot sauce can be stored for one to two years when stored properly.
Once opened, it’s best to refrigerate your hot sauce to preserve its quality.
When sealed tightly, opened bottles should last at least three months and up to one year.
If freezing, store in ice cube trays for easy portioning.
However, even these sauces may lose their flavor or change in texture over time.
