Tongue Torch Sauce from Zaxby's features a bold blend of spicy jalapenos, smoky chipotle peppers, and tangy vinegar, delivering a fiery kick with a smooth, slightly smoky flavor that complements crispy chicken wings and sandwiches perfectly.
Equipments
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Heat-resistant spatula
- Fine mesh strainer (optional)
- Storage container or jar
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot or similar)
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon finely minced pickled jalapenos
- 1 teaspoon jalapeno brine (from pickled jalapenos)
When preparing the Tongue Torch Sauce, it is crucial to use pickled jalapenos and their brine to achieve the authentic tangy and spicy flavor profile characteristic of the original Zaxby's sauce. Smoky chipotle chili powder and smoked paprika are essential for delivering the signature smoky heat, so opt for fresh, high-quality spices to maximize flavor. Measuring ingredients accurately with proper tools like measuring cups and spoons ensures the balance of heat and tang remains consistent. Fresh lemon juice combined with white vinegar adds the necessary acidity to brighten the sauce and enhance its overall complexity. Your homemade Tongue Torch Sauce will offer a bold, fiery kick that closely mimics the distinctive taste of Zaxby's original recipe, making it perfect for wings and sandwiches.
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, white vinegar, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce.
- Add smoked paprika, chipotle chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to the bowl.
- Add finely minced pickled jalapenos and jalapeno brine.
- Whisk all ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- (Optional) Transfer sauce to a saucepan and heat over medium-low for 3-5 minutes, stirring gently with a spatula.
- (Optional) Strain sauce through a fine mesh strainer for a smoother texture.
- Let the sauce cool to room temperature.
- Transfer sauce to a storage container or jar.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld before serving.
Substitution
Tongue Torch Sauce from Zaxby's copycat menu captures the fiery heat of jalapenos and chipotle peppers balanced with tangy vinegar and smoky undertones. If you don't have pickled jalapenos, fresh jalapenos with a splash of vinegar can work as a substitute to maintain the bold flavor. Using smoked paprika is key for the authentic smoky taste, but regular paprika combined with a hint of liquid smoke can be an alternative. When whisking the sauce, ensure all spices are fully incorporated for a smooth texture that coats wings evenly. You can store your finished sauce in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to one week to let the flavors meld.
Tips
Using fresh minced pickled jalapenos and including jalapeno brine enhance the Tongue Torch Sauce's authentic spicy flavor, so don't skip these ingredients. Whisking thoroughly ensures a smooth consistency without lumps, making it perfect for dipping crispy chicken wings or spreading on sandwiches. When heating the sauce, keep the temperature low and stir gently to prevent separation or burning of the mayonnaise-based mixture. Refrigerate the sauce for at least an hour to let the bold blend of smoked paprika, chipotle chili powder, and Worcestershire sauce fully develop, improving your overall flavor experience.
Nutritions
Tongue Torch Sauce from Zaxby's contains mayonnaise as its base, providing fats that contribute to satiety and energy. The sauce incorporates jalapenos and chipotle chili powder, which are rich in vitamins A and C and can boost metabolism. Vinegar and lemon juice offer a tangy flavor while adding minimal calories and some antioxidants. Your meal gains both spice and flavor complexity without significant carbohydrates or sugars, making it a flavorful option for enhancing protein-rich foods like chicken wings and sandwiches.
Storage
Store the Tongue Torch Sauce in an airtight container or jar to maintain its bold flavor and freshness. Keep it refrigerated at or below 40degF (4degC) for up to two weeks to ensure optimal taste and safety. Before using Your sauce, give it a good stir to redistribute any separated ingredients for the best experience.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute chipotle chili powder with smoked ancho chili powder for a milder smoky flavor while retaining heat. Instead of mayonnaise, use Greek yogurt to achieve a tangier, lighter sauce with added protein. For an enhanced texture, try blending fresh roasted jalapenos instead of pickled ones to introduce a fresher, more vibrant jalapeno flavor. Heating the sauce gently without straining preserves its slightly chunky consistency, providing a heartier texture that clings well to wings and sandwiches.
Allergies
You should be cautious if you have allergies to eggs or mustard, as mayonnaise often contains eggs and Worcestershire sauce sometimes includes mustard. The sauce also contains spices like garlic, onion, and chili powders, which can trigger reactions in sensitive individuals. Always check labels carefully if you have any known food allergies before consuming Tongue Torch Sauce.
Why this recipe?
Zaxby's Tongue Torch Sauce menu is favored for its perfect balance of smoky heat and tangy flavor, combining paprika, cayenne, and garlic to ignite taste buds without overpowering. This sauce enhances a variety of dishes, from chicken fingers to sandwiches, making each bite uniquely flavorful and satisfying. Creating a copycat version allows you to enjoy the signature Zaxby's taste at home, customizing spice levels to match Your preferences. The homemade approach also offers a cost-effective and fresh alternative, preserving the bold intensity that fans crave.