Spice Up Your Life: Delicious Recipes Featuring Uncle Mike’s Vinegar Pepper Sauce
Uncle Mike’s Vinegar Pepper Sauce isn’t just a condiment; it’s an experience. It’s that tangy, spicy kick that elevates everyday dishes to something truly special. If you’re a fan of this iconic Southern staple, or just looking to add some zest to your cooking, you’ve come to the right place. This article is packed with delicious recipes that showcase the versatility and incredible flavor of Uncle Mike’s Vinegar Pepper Sauce. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds!
What is Uncle Mike’s Vinegar Pepper Sauce?
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s talk about what makes Uncle Mike’s so unique. Unlike many other hot sauces, Uncle Mike’s is vinegar-based. This provides a vibrant acidity that cuts through richness and balances flavors beautifully. It typically contains a blend of peppers (often cayenne or a similar variety), vinegar, and sometimes a touch of salt and other spices. The result is a bright, tangy, and moderately spicy sauce that’s perfect for everything from eggs to greens to grilled meats. Its thinner consistency also allows it to permeate food, infusing it with flavor rather than just sitting on the surface.
Key Characteristics and Benefits of Using Vinegar Pepper Sauce
* **Tangy Flavor:** The vinegar base provides a distinct tartness that brightens up any dish.
* **Moderate Heat:** Offers a pleasant kick without being overwhelmingly spicy.
* **Versatility:** Complements a wide range of foods, from breakfast to dinner.
* **Low Calorie:** A flavorful way to add zest without adding significant calories or fat.
* **Natural Ingredients:** Typically made with simple, wholesome ingredients.
* **Digestive Aid:** Vinegar is believed to aid digestion.
Safety and Storage Guidelines
* **Storage:** Store unopened bottles of Uncle Mike’s Vinegar Pepper Sauce in a cool, dark place. Once opened, refrigeration is recommended to maintain optimal flavor and quality.
* **Shelf Life:** Vinegar-based sauces generally have a good shelf life due to the preserving properties of vinegar. However, it’s always best to check the expiration date on the bottle.
* **Allergies:** Be mindful of potential pepper allergies. If you’re unsure, start with a small amount.
* **Acidity:** The high acidity of the sauce can be irritating to some. Use in moderation if you have acid reflux or other digestive sensitivities.
* **Handling:** Avoid getting the sauce in your eyes or on sensitive skin. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling peppers or hot sauce.
Recipe 1: Uncle Mike’s Spicy Shrimp Scampi
This twist on classic shrimp scampi adds a fiery kick that will leave you wanting more. The vinegar pepper sauce perfectly complements the richness of the butter and garlic.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
* 4 tablespoons butter
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 cup dry white wine
* 2 tablespoons Uncle Mike’s Vinegar Pepper Sauce
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Cooked linguine or spaghetti, for serving
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Shrimp:** Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
2. **Sauté Garlic:** In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. **Deglaze with Wine:** Pour in the white wine and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate.
4. **Add the Kick:** Stir in the Uncle Mike’s Vinegar Pepper Sauce. Adjust the amount to your desired level of spiciness.
5. **Cook the Shrimp:** Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Avoid overcrowding the pan, cook in batches if needed.
6. **Combine and Serve:** Toss the cooked shrimp with the sauce and parsley. Serve immediately over cooked linguine or spaghetti.
7. **Garnish:** Add an extra drizzle of Uncle Mike’s and a sprinkle of parsley for presentation.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Spice Level:** Adjust the amount of Uncle Mike’s Vinegar Pepper Sauce to your personal preference. Start with less and add more as needed.
* **Vegetables:** Add some chopped vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the skillet along with the garlic for a more complete meal.
* **Lemon Juice:** Squeeze a little fresh lemon juice over the finished dish for added brightness.
* **Red Pepper Flakes:** For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic as it cooks.
* **Heavy Cream:** Stir in a tablespoon or two of heavy cream at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
Recipe 2: Uncle Mike’s Marinated Chicken Wings
These chicken wings are bursting with flavor, thanks to a tangy and spicy marinade featuring Uncle Mike’s. They’re perfect for game day, cookouts, or any casual gathering.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 pounds chicken wings
* 1/2 cup Uncle Mike’s Vinegar Pepper Sauce
* 1/4 cup soy sauce
* 2 tablespoons brown sugar
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Marinade:** In a large bowl, whisk together the Uncle Mike’s Vinegar Pepper Sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, olive oil, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
2. **Marinate the Wings:** Add the chicken wings to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
3. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. **Arrange Wings:** Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Arrange the marinated chicken wings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
5. **Bake the Wings:** Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the wings are cooked through and the skin is crispy and golden brown. Flip the wings halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
6. **Serve:** Serve the baked chicken wings immediately, with your favorite dipping sauce if desired (blue cheese or ranch are great choices).
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Grilling:** These wings are also delicious grilled. Grill them over medium heat for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
* **Spice Level:** Adjust the amount of Uncle Mike’s Vinegar Pepper Sauce in the marinade to your preference.
* **Sweetness:** Increase or decrease the amount of brown sugar to adjust the sweetness level.
* **Herbs:** Add some chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the marinade for extra flavor.
* **Citrus:** Add a squeeze of lemon or lime juice to the marinade for a brighter flavor.
* **Basting:** Baste the wings with extra marinade during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a stickier, more flavorful glaze.
Recipe 3: Uncle Mike’s Deviled Eggs
This classic appetizer gets a Southern twist with the addition of Uncle Mike’s Vinegar Pepper Sauce. The tangy heat balances the richness of the egg yolks and mayonnaise.
**Ingredients:**
* 6 large eggs
* 1/4 cup mayonnaise
* 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
* 1 tablespoon Uncle Mike’s Vinegar Pepper Sauce
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Paprika, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Hard-Boil the Eggs:** Place the eggs in a saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then remove from heat and let sit for 10-12 minutes. Transfer the eggs to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
2. **Peel the Eggs:** Gently peel the cooled eggs and pat them dry.
3. **Prepare the Filling:** Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks. Place the yolks in a medium bowl.
4. **Mash the Yolks:** Mash the egg yolks with a fork until smooth.
5. **Add Ingredients:** Add the mayonnaise, yellow mustard, and Uncle Mike’s Vinegar Pepper Sauce to the mashed yolks. Stir until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. **Fill the Egg Whites:** Spoon the yolk mixture back into the egg white halves. You can use a piping bag for a more decorative presentation.
7. **Garnish and Serve:** Sprinkle the deviled eggs with paprika and serve chilled.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Spice Level:** Adjust the amount of Uncle Mike’s Vinegar Pepper Sauce to your desired level of heat.
* **Texture:** For a smoother filling, use a food processor to blend the yolks and other ingredients.
* **Pickles:** Add finely chopped pickles or sweet relish to the filling for extra tang and texture.
* **Bacon:** Crumble cooked bacon over the deviled eggs for a savory addition.
* **Chives:** Garnish with chopped fresh chives for added flavor and visual appeal.
* **Smoked Paprika:** Use smoked paprika for garnish instead of regular paprika for a smokier flavor.
* **Jalapenos:** Add finely diced jalapenos to the yolk mixture for an extra kick.
Recipe 4: Uncle Mike’s Collard Greens
Collard greens are a Southern staple, and Uncle Mike’s Vinegar Pepper Sauce is the perfect way to season them. This recipe delivers tender, flavorful greens with a delightful kick.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound collard greens, washed and chopped
* 4 slices bacon, chopped
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 4 cups chicken broth
* 1/4 cup Uncle Mike’s Vinegar Pepper Sauce
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Bacon:** In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and set aside, reserving the bacon fat.
2. **Sauté the Onion and Garlic:** Add the chopped onion to the pot with the bacon fat and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. **Add the Greens:** Add the chopped collard greens to the pot and stir to combine with the onion and garlic.
4. **Add Broth and Seasoning:** Pour in the chicken broth and add the Uncle Mike’s Vinegar Pepper Sauce, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour, or until the collard greens are tender.
5. **Return Bacon:** Stir in the cooked bacon during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
6. **Serve:** Serve the collard greens hot, with the pot liquor (the flavorful broth). Enjoy with cornbread or other Southern favorites.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Smoked Turkey:** Substitute smoked turkey for bacon for a leaner option.
* **Brown Sugar:** Add a tablespoon of brown sugar for a touch of sweetness.
* **Apple Cider Vinegar:** Substitute some of the vinegar pepper sauce with apple cider vinegar for a slightly different flavor profile.
* **Smoked Ham Hock:** Add a smoked ham hock to the pot while simmering for a richer, smokier flavor. Remove the ham hock before serving.
* **Time:** The longer the greens simmer, the more tender and flavorful they will become. You can simmer them for up to 2-3 hours.
* **Spice:** Adjust the amount of Uncle Mike’s to your personal spice preference.
Recipe 5: Uncle Mike’s Vinaigrette Dressing
Elevate your salads with this simple yet flavorful vinaigrette. The tanginess of the vinegar pepper sauce pairs perfectly with olive oil and herbs.
**Ingredients:**
* 1/4 cup olive oil
* 2 tablespoons Uncle Mike’s Vinegar Pepper Sauce
* 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
* 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, Uncle Mike’s Vinegar Pepper Sauce, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. **Emulsify:** Continue whisking until the vinaigrette is well combined and emulsified.
3. **Taste and Adjust:** Taste the vinaigrette and adjust the seasonings as needed. You may want to add more Uncle Mike’s Vinegar Pepper Sauce for extra spice or a touch of honey for sweetness.
4. **Serve:** Drizzle the vinaigrette over your favorite salads. It’s especially delicious with greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Herbs:** Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or basil for added flavor.
* **Honey:** Add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness.
* **Lemon Juice:** Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a brighter, more citrusy flavor.
* **Shallots:** Substitute minced shallots for garlic for a milder flavor.
* **Storage:** Store the vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Shake well before using.
Recipe 6: Uncle Mike’s Breakfast Tacos
Start your day with a kick! These breakfast tacos are quick, easy, and full of flavor, thanks to Uncle Mike’s.
**Ingredients:**
* 6 eggs
* 2 tablespoons milk
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 tablespoon butter
* 6 small flour tortillas
* 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon or chorizo
* Uncle Mike’s Vinegar Pepper Sauce, to taste
* Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, onions, sour cream, avocado
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Eggs:** In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
2. **Cook the Eggs:** Melt the butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour in the egg mixture and cook, stirring occasionally, until the eggs are set but still slightly moist.
3. **Warm the Tortillas:** Warm the flour tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable.
4. **Assemble the Tacos:** Divide the scrambled eggs among the tortillas. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, cooked bacon or chorizo, and a generous drizzle of Uncle Mike’s Vinegar Pepper Sauce.
5. **Add Toppings:** Add any optional toppings you like, such as diced tomatoes, onions, sour cream, or avocado.
6. **Serve:** Serve the breakfast tacos immediately.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Spice Level:** Adjust the amount of Uncle Mike’s Vinegar Pepper Sauce to your liking.
* **Vegetables:** Add some chopped vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach to the scrambled eggs.
* **Beans:** Add refried beans to the tacos for extra protein and fiber.
* **Potatoes:** Add diced and cooked potatoes to the tacos for a heartier meal.
* **Cheese:** Use your favorite type of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack.
Recipe 7: Uncle Mike’s Coleslaw
Give your coleslaw a zesty upgrade with Uncle Mike’s Vinegar Pepper Sauce. It adds a tangy kick that complements the creamy dressing and crunchy cabbage.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 bag (16 ounces) coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise
* 2 tablespoons Uncle Mike’s Vinegar Pepper Sauce
* 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
* 1 tablespoon sugar
* 1/2 teaspoon celery seed
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Dressing:** In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Uncle Mike’s Vinegar Pepper Sauce, apple cider vinegar, sugar, celery seed, salt, and pepper.
2. **Combine with Coleslaw Mix:** Add the coleslaw mix to the bowl with the dressing and toss to coat evenly.
3. **Chill:** Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. The longer it chills, the better the flavor will be.
4. **Serve:** Serve the coleslaw chilled, as a side dish or topping for sandwiches and burgers.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Sweetness:** Adjust the amount of sugar to your liking. You can also use honey or maple syrup as a substitute.
* **Tanginess:** Add more apple cider vinegar for a tangier coleslaw.
* **Crunch:** Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
* **Fruit:** Add diced apples or cranberries for a touch of sweetness and flavor.
* **Herbs:** Add chopped fresh parsley or dill for added flavor.
Beyond the Recipes: Unleash Your Creativity
These recipes are just a starting point. Don’t be afraid to experiment and incorporate Uncle Mike’s Vinegar Pepper Sauce into your own favorite dishes. Here are some additional ideas:
* **Eggs:** Add a dash to scrambled eggs, omelets, or fried eggs.
* **Grits:** Swirl some into creamy grits for a Southern-style breakfast.
* **Sandwiches:** Use it as a condiment on sandwiches and burgers.
* **Soups:** Add a splash to soups and stews for a kick of flavor.
* **Dips:** Mix it into dips like guacamole or salsa.
* **Pizza:** Drizzle it over pizza for added heat and tang.
* **Seafood:** Use it to marinate or season fish and shellfish.
* **Stir-fries:** Add it to stir-fries for a spicy and flavorful sauce.
Conclusion
Uncle Mike’s Vinegar Pepper Sauce is a versatile and flavorful ingredient that can elevate a wide variety of dishes. From spicy shrimp scampi to tangy coleslaw, the possibilities are endless. So, grab a bottle of Uncle Mike’s and start experimenting in the kitchen. You’ll be amazed at the delicious creations you can come up with. Happy cooking!