Hot sauce aficionados across the United States revel in the delightful heat of their favorite fiery condiments. From the heart of New Orleans to the barbecue-loving Carolinas, these spicy elixirs have earned their place in the pantheon of great American flavors. Each bottle carries a unique history and, of course, an unmatched zing.
These regional favorites are some of the country’s most beloved hot sauces.
Crystal Hot Sauce – New Orleans, LA
In a world where Tabasco reigns supreme, there’s a worthy contender – Crystal. Walk into any classic New Orleans restaurant, and you’ll likely find this iconic bottle gracing most tables. Its origins can be traced back to the sale of Mill’s Fruit Products, a sno-ball syrup company acquired by Alvin Baumer. Baumer transformed it into a staple in Gulf Coast households. Crystal even holds the honor of being the official hot sauce of the New Orleans Saints, showing that it’s more than just a condiment.
Texas Pete Hot Sauce – Winston-Salem, NC
For TN friends in the Carolinas, Texas Pete is akin to what Crystal is for Louisianans. Interestingly, it has nothing to do with the Lone Star state; instead, it was crafted by Sam Garner and his three sons in North Carolina. The “Pete” in Texas Pete originates from Sam’s son Harold, who went by the nickname Pete. The Garner family continues to oversee the brand, and their hot sauce remains a classic choice, especially when paired with pimiento cheese.
Louisiana Hot Sauce – New Iberia, LA
Louisiana Hot Sauce may not be as renowned among city dwellers, but it’s a gem hailing from Cajun country. This sauce offers a more direct heat with a lighter tang compared to its counterparts, making it a unique addition to the world of Louisiana-style hot sauces.
Yellowbird Sauce – Austin, TX
Yellowbird Sauce offers a refreshing twist to the traditional hot sauce experience. This Sriracha-style sauce boasts a vibrant and bold flavor with a citrusy kick, replacing the customary vinegar tang. It was even honored with a Southern Living Food Award in 2015, proving that innovation can be spicy and delicious.
Subiaco Abbey Habanero Hot Sauce – Subiaco, AR
“Monk Sauce” doesn’t sound very intense, but don’t be fooled. Made in a fully functioning abbey in rural Arkansas, this sauce packs a fiery punch, scoring a staggering 250,000 on the Scoville Heat Unit Scale. To put that into perspective, Tabasco’s Habanero sauce measures a mere 7,000. The monks insist their sauce is “absolutely heavenly.”
Southern Art Co. Hot Sauce – Atlanta, GA
Southern Art Co. Hot Sauce is crafted with a blend of herbs, aromatics, and a hint of sweetness. This unique combination results in a crowd-pleasing sauce that pairs perfectly with various dishes.
Cackalacky Spice Sauce – Salisbury, NC
Hailing from the same town that introduced the world to Cheerwine, Cackalacky’s Spice Sauce is unique. It incorporates sweet potatoes, and its ingredients, such as honey, garlic, onion, apple cider, crushed tomatoes, and key lime juice, are reminiscent of a BBQ sauce. This sweet and savory profile sets it apart in the world of hot sauces.
Frankie V’s Orange Label Habanero – Dallas, TX
Frankie V’s Orange Label Habanero sauce adds a fiery kick to various dishes, whether it’s scrambled eggs or spicy buffalo wings. With a dash of paprika, it delivers a bold and zesty flavor.
Red Clay Hot Sauce – Charleston, SC
For those who can’t get enough heat, Red Clay offers a delightful kick. Their original recipe, featuring locally grown Fresno peppers, packs a punch. If you’re feeling particularly daring, you can turn to Red Clay’s Carolina Hot, featuring the scorching Carolina Reaper, a pepper so hot it often comes with warning labels.