Spicy Bourbon-Maple Pili Pili Sauce

1. Warm Peanut Oil

Warm the peanut oil in a small saucepan over medium heat until it begins to shimmer.

2. Sauté Onion

Add the finely diced white onion and sauté for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent.

3. Add Aromatics

Stir in the orange zest, minced garlic, paprika, and coarse sea salt. Let them sauté together for an additional 2 to 3 minutes.

4. Blend Mixture

Transfer the sautéed mixture to a blender. Add the seeded bird’s-eye chiles, red wine vinegar, fresh lemon juice, bourbon, pure maple syrup, and unsulfured molasses. Blend until smooth.

5. Simmer Sauce

Pour the blended mixture back into the small saucepan and bring it to a gentle simmer. Partially cover and let the sauce simmer for about 45 minutes, until it thickens.

6. Add Basil and Pepper

Stir in the minced fresh basil and freshly ground white pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer for another 2 minutes.