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A punchy, versatile chilli sauce with a hint of ginger – made from pantry staples in 5 minutes.

Close-up of Portuguese-style chili sauce in a small bowl with a wooden spoon dipped in
Punchy, zesty and glossy – this chilli sauce adds bold flavour in seconds.

This bold, Portuguese-style chilli sauce is inspired by the fiery drizzle you get on a Bondi Burger at Oporto (a fast-food chain here in Australia) – only fresher, faster and made with ingredients you probably already have at home. It’s tangy, punchy and packed with just enough heat to keep things interesting.

The real magic? A little fresh ginger. It adds depth and zing without overpowering – and you can skip it entirely if you’re making this for kids or spice-sensitive eaters.

Close-up of golden fries dipped in Portuguese-style chili sauce with red chili pieces
The perfect spicy dip for hot fries, wedges or crispy roasted potatoes. Instant fakeaway vibes.

Made in one bowl with no cooking required, it’s the ultimate fridge condiment. Drizzle it over Portuguese Chicken Burgers, Portuguese-style Chilli Chicken Wraps, grain bowls, grilled meats, roast veggies or even fries. It’s a 5-minute flavour upgrade for basically anything!

Close-up of Portuguese-style chili chicken wrap with lettuce, sauce, and fries on a plate
This sauce takes wraps, rice bowls and grilled chicken to the next level – and it’s totally customisable!

Does the sauce need to be cooked?

No cooking is needed! This is a raw sauce – just mix and you’re done. However, let it sit for a few minutes if you can, to let the flavours come together.

Close-up of Portuguese-style chili sauce in a small bowl with wooden spoon, mixed with lemon juice and salt
No cooking required – just stir and taste. The lemon and ginger bring it to life.

What’s the best chilli to use?

This recipe relies on a good-quality chilli paste. I used an Italian chilli paste, but you can also use sambal oelek.

Portuguese-style chili sauce ingredients including chili oil, lemon, ginger, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper on a wooden surface
Chilli paste, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, ginger and a pinch of sugar – that’s it. One bowl, 5 minutes and you’ve got a bold, zesty sauce that works on everything.

Watch how to make Portuguese-style Chilli Sauce

You can enjoy Portuguese-style Chilli Sauce with:

Portuguese-style Chilli Chicken Wraps Recipe
Portuguese Chicken Burger Recipe
Butterflied Portuguese Chicken Recipe
Peri Peri Style Chicken Burgers Recipe
Hot Honey Crunch Chicken Burger Recipe

Close-up of Portuguese-style chili sauce in a small bowl with a wooden spoon dipped in

Portuguese-style Chilli Sauce

Author: Nicole
5 from 1 vote
“So easy & tasty. Only takes a couple of minutes to make.”
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A bold, zesty chilli sauce made from pantry staples in just 5 minutes – no cooking, no fuss. Portuguese-style Chilli Sauce adds instant flavour to wraps, grilled meats, roast veggies or fries, and can be made ahead for busy weeknights or meal prep. Perfect when you want big flavour with zero effort – and it’s customisable for little or spice-loving eaters alike.
Prep 5 minutes
Total 5 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 125 g (½ cup) chilli paste (Italian chilli paste or sambal oelek)
  • 60 ml (¼ cup) olive oil
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • ½ tsp freshly minced garlic
  • ½ tsp freshly minced ginger
  • ½ tsp caster (superfine) sugar
  • Sea salt flakes, to taste
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  • Mix all the ingredients in a small bowl and stir until well combined.
  • Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavours to develop.
  • Serve immediately or store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before using, as the oil may solidify.

Nutrition information

Nutrition Facts
Portuguese-style Chilli Sauce
Amount per Serving
Calories
157
% Daily Value*
Fat
 
14
g
22
%
Saturated Fat
 
2
g
13
%
Polyunsaturated Fat
 
1
g
Monounsaturated Fat
 
10
g
Sodium
 
16
mg
1
%
Potassium
 
124
mg
4
%
Carbohydrates
 
10
g
3
%
Fiber
 
0.2
g
1
%
Sugar
 
3
g
3
%
Protein
 
1
g
2
%
Vitamin A
 
63
IU
1
%
Vitamin C
 
7
mg
8
%
Calcium
 
8
mg
1
%
Iron
 
0.3
mg
2
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Disclaimer re gluten-free and dairy-free recipes

Watch how to make it

Recipe notes

Make Ahead

Fridge – Store in an airtight container or jar for up to 3 days.
Freezer – Freeze in an ice cube tray or small container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge and stir well before using.
To use – Ensure the chilli sauce comes to room temperature before using (the oil will solidify).

Leftovers

See make ahead instructions above.

Equipment

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Course Sauces and Dressings
Cuisine Portuguese-inspired