Hot honey is one of those ingredients that can elevate a variety of dishes, but can be pricey to buy. However, many people are unaware that it is actually quite simple to make at home. By gently warming honey with chili, we create a sweet, comforting heat. The honey’s natural floral flavor remains while the spice adds depth.
This recipe keeps things simple and versatile. It’s just a few ingredients, low heat, and a little patience. The result is a golden mix of sweet and savory that works with everyday meals and fancier creations. Whether you prefer a small hint of spice or a strong kick of heat, this recipe is easy to adjust and hard to get wrong.
Uses
Hot honey works well as a finishing touch. Drizzle it over flatbreads, cheeses, or vegetables. Even a small spoonful can transform a simple food into something memorable.
Variations and Substitutes
The recipe below is a basic hot honey, using dried chili flakes for a classic heat. However, you can use fresh chilis for a stronger kick, or add smoked paprika for a deeper and earthier flavor. While apple cider vinegar adds tang to this recipe, it can be substituted with other acidic flavors, such as lemon/lime juice, or with other vinegars like rice or white wine vinegar. For a more savory twist, infuse with small amounts of garlic or rosemary. Lastly, the amount of chili can be adjusted to suit your tastes.
Storage
Once cooled, store hot honey in a clean jar at room temperature for up to a month, or refrigerate to extend the storage time. If the honey thickens or crystallizes, don’t worry! You can always gently warm it to bring it back to normal before using.
Instructions
Warm the honey slowly in a small saucepan over low heat, then add the chili flakes (or chili of your choice. Let the mixture heat until warm and fragrant, but take care to ensure it doesn’t boil. This will make sure the honey stays smooth and flavorful without becoming bitter. Once the heat is turned off, mix in the vinegar and let the mixture cool. If you prefer a smoother honey, you can use a strainer to remove the chili flakes. However, you can also leave them in as a visual indicator of the spice and to let the flavor continue to infuse.
Quick and Easy Hot Honey
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Warm the honey slowly in a small saucepan over low heat.
- Add the chili of your choice and let the mixture heat until warm and fragrant, being careful not to boil.
- Turn off heat and stir in vinegar.
- Optional: strain the honey to remove flakes for a smooth texture.
- Let the mixture cool slightly before transferring to a jar for storage.
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