Green Apple & Jalapeno Chipotle Recipe

Sauté aromatics and soften apples

Heat a medium skillet over medium heat and add the vegetable oil. When shimmering, add the diced onion and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent and beginning to brown on the edges, about 5–6 minutes. Add the minced garlic and chopped jalapeño and cook for 30–45 seconds until fragrant. Add the chopped green apples and continue to sauté, stirring, until the apples begin to soften and release liquid, about 6–8 minutes.

Add chipotle and seasonings

Stir in the chopped smoked chipotle, honey, apple cider vinegar and lime juice. Cook for another 1–2 minutes to marry flavors and allow the acidity to slightly deglaze the pan. Season with kosher salt and black pepper.

Simmer and adjust consistency

Reduce heat to low and pour in 1–2 tablespoons of water if the mixture is very dry. Let the mixture simmer gently 3–4 minutes to meld flavors and soften the apples further. Taste and adjust sweetness, acidity, or heat by adding more honey, lime juice, or a small pinch of salt as needed.

Blend until smooth (or leave slightly textured)

Transfer the apple-jalapeño-chipotle mixture to a blender or use an immersion blender in the skillet. Add the fresh cilantro if using. Blend on high until smooth, or pulse to leave a slightly chunky texture depending on preference. If the sauce is too thick, add additional water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until you reach desired pourable/ spreadable consistency.

Cool and store

Let the sauce cool to room temperature. Transfer to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let flavors meld. Sauce will keep in the refrigerator for up to 10 days. Stir or shake before using.

Serving suggestions

Use as a glaze for grilled chicken or pork, a spicy-sweet drizzle for tacos, a dipping sauce for fried shrimp, or as a spread on sandwiches and burgers. Adjust jalapeño and chipotle quantities for milder or hotter profiles.