Copycat Nando’s PERi-PERi Sauce

Learn how to make the ultimate copycat Nando’s PERi-PERi sauce at home! Packed with bold flavors and a spicy kick, this easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for marinades, dips, and more.

Nando’s PERi-PERi sauce is iconic—bursting with fiery spice, tangy vinegar, and a hint of smoky sweetness. Whether you’re drizzling it on grilled chicken, slathering it over roasted vegetables, or using it as a zesty dip, this sauce transforms ordinary meals into something extraordinary. But what if you could skip the store-bought version and make this delicious sauce at home?

This article will guide you step-by-step through creating a homemade copycat Nando’s PERi-PERi sauce that rivals the original. From choosing the right chilies to perfecting the balance of flavors, you’ll learn all the secrets to mastering this versatile condiment.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Making your own Nando’s PERi-PERi sauce has plenty of perks:

Cost-Effective: Homemade is cheaper than buying bottled sauce.
Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level to suit your preferences.
Versatile Usage: Use it as a marinade, glaze, dip, or sauce.
No Preservatives: Fresh ingredients make it healthier and tastier.

What Is PERi-PERi Sauce?

PERi-PERi sauce originated from Mozambique and South Africa, where it was traditionally made using African Bird’s Eye chilies. Over time, it has become synonymous with Nando’s, a popular restaurant chain that pairs the sauce with its flame-grilled chicken.

This sauce typically combines:

Spice: From chilies
Tang: From vinegar and lemon juice
Garlic and Onion: For savory depth
Herbs: Like oregano and bay leaves
Sweetness: A hint of sugar or honey

Ingredients for Copycat Nando’s PERi-PERi Sauce

To make this flavorful sauce, you’ll need:

Main Ingredients:

6-8 red chilies (African Bird’s Eye preferred, but Thai red chilies or Fresno work well)
1 red bell pepper, roasted and peeled
4-6 garlic cloves, minced
1 small onion, diced
¼ cup olive oil
¼ cup white vinegar
2 tbsp lemon juice

Seasonings and Herbs:

1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp ground coriander
1 bay leaf
1-2 tbsp sugar or honey
Salt and black pepper, to taste

How to Make Copycat Nando’s PERi-PERi Sauce

Follow these steps to whip up your own PERi-PERi sauce in under 30 minutes:

1. Roast the Bell Pepper

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place the red bell pepper on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until the skin is charred.
Remove the pepper, let it cool, and peel off the skin. Set aside.

2. Prep the Chilies

De-stem the red chilies. For a milder sauce, remove the seeds; leave them in for a spicier kick.

3. Sauté Garlic and Onion

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent (about 5 minutes).

4. Blend the Ingredients

In a blender or food processor, combine:
- Roasted red bell pepper
- Sautéed garlic and onion
- Chilies
- Vinegar
- Lemon juice
- Remaining olive oil
- Spices (paprika, cayenne, oregano, coriander)
- Bay leaf (optional for blending or remove afterward)
Blend until smooth. Add water to adjust the consistency if needed.

5. Simmer for Enhanced Flavor

Transfer the blended mixture to a saucepan.
Simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together.

6. Taste and Adjust

Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning:
- Add sugar or honey for sweetness.
- Adjust salt and vinegar for balance.
- If it’s too spicy, blend in more roasted red bell pepper or a splash of cream.

7. Store and Serve

Allow the sauce to cool completely.
Transfer it to a sterilized glass jar or bottle.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Tips for Making Perfect PERi-PERi Sauce

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chilies and garlic make all the difference.
Roast the Bell Pepper: Roasting adds a smoky sweetness that balances the spice.
Customize the Heat: Experiment with different chilies to find your perfect spice level.
Blend Thoroughly: A high-powered blender ensures a smooth, velvety sauce.
Let It Rest: For the best flavor, allow the sauce to sit for a day before serving.

Ways to Use PERi-PERi Sauce

This versatile sauce can be used in countless ways:

Marinade: Perfect for chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
Dipping Sauce: Serve with fries, roasted veggies, or pita bread.
Glaze: Brush over grilled meats for a glossy, spicy finish.
Condiment: Spread it on sandwiches, burgers, or wraps.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use dried chilies instead of fresh ones?

Yes! Rehydrate dried chilies in hot water for 15-20 minutes before blending them into the sauce.

2. How do I make a milder version of this sauce?

Use fewer chilies or remove the seeds and membranes, which contain most of the heat. Add more roasted bell pepper for sweetness.

3. Is this sauce vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! All the ingredients are plant-based, but always check labels for store-bought items like spices.

4. How long can I store homemade PERi-PERi sauce?

Keep it in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze in small portions.

5. Can I use this sauce for vegetarian dishes?

Of course! It’s delicious as a marinade for grilled vegetables, a topping for veggie burgers, or a dip for falafel.

6. What’s the difference between PERi-PERi and hot sauce?

PERi-PERi sauce is thicker and more complex, with layers of garlic, herbs, and a smoky sweetness that set it apart from traditional hot sauce.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a rough breakdown per tablespoon of PERi-PERi sauce:

Calories: 25
Fat: 2g
Carbs: 1g
Protein: 0g

It’s a flavorful way to spice up your meals without adding excessive calories or fat.

Why Make PERi-PERi Sauce at Home?

Homemade PERi-PERi sauce offers unmatched freshness and flavor. You control the ingredients, spice level, and consistency, ensuring a perfect fit for your palate. Plus, it’s free from preservatives and artificial additives, making it a healthier option.

Conclusion

Creating your own Copycat Nando’s PERi-PERi sauce is easier than you think, and the results are outstanding. This homemade version captures all the bold, zesty flavors you love while giving you the freedom to customize it to your liking.

Whether you’re using it to marinate chicken, drizzle over grilled veggies, or spice up a sandwich, this versatile sauce will elevate your meals to new heights. Try this recipe today, and bring the fiery flavors of Nando’s to your kitchen!

🌶️🍽️ The Ultimate Copycat Nando’s PERi-PERi Sauce Recipe: Spice Up Your Meals