Honey Habanero

Sweet hits first, then the heat climbs in behind it: that is the whole appeal of honey and habanero together. This is the blend for wings, whether you toss them dry or work it into a glaze, and it does the same trick on grilled chicken, ribs, or roasted carrots. Granulated honey and orange peel bring the sweetness, habanero and red pepper flakes bring the burn.

Real granulated honey does the sweetening, which is why the flavor tastes round and warm instead of flatly sugary. Orange peel and paprika deepen it, and a measured amount of sea salt ties the sweet and the hot together. We blend it in small batches in Portland so the honey and the chili stay in balance.

Hand-blended with sea salt and granulated honey. No preservatives. Naturally gluten-free.

How do I turn it into a glaze or wing sauce?
Warm a few spoonfuls with a little butter or oil and a splash of water or vinegar until it loosens into a slurry, then toss it with cooked wings, chicken, or ribs. For a dry finish, sprinkle it straight onto crisp wings out of the oven or fryer.

How hot is it?
Medium-hot. The honey and orange peel soften the front, then the habanero and red pepper flakes build behind the sweetness. It has real heat, but the sweetness makes it more approachable than a straight habanero blend.

Does it contain sugar?
It is sweetened with real granulated honey, so it is not sugar-free. That honey is where the sweetness and the rounded flavor come from. Because it contains honey, it is not vegan.

Is it salt-free?
No. It contains sea salt, which balances the sweet and the hot. Keep that in mind and go lighter on any added salt in the dish.