Grandmother Merrill's Chili Sauce Recipe

A vibrant and tangy chili sauce, ready in minutes! This family heirloom recipe from Grandmother Merrill is incredibly versatile – perfect for adding a zesty kick to your favorite sides like boiled cabbage, peas, or beans. Simple ingredients combine to create a surprisingly complex flavor profile that's sure to become a new kitchen staple.

Prep Time 10 mins

Cook Time 3 mins

Calories 139.9 kcal

Protein 2g

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The Forktionary Kitchen Team

Adapted from Food.com, then tested & standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Grandmother Merrill's Chili Sauce

1 medium onion
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 (28 ounce) can tomatoes
1/2 cup white vinegar
1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
Pickled Peppers
1 green bell pepper

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How to Make Grandmother Merrill's Chili Sauce

Finely chop 1 medium onion and 1 green bell pepper.
In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped onion and pepper with 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup white vinegar, and 1 teaspoon salt.
Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and translucent (about 5-7 minutes).
Chop 1 (28 ounce) can of tomatoes and add them to the saucepan along with 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice and 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon.
Stir well to combine all ingredients. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy on dried peas, beans, boiled cabbage, or your favorite dish!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

12 g

Sugar

117g

Fat

Carbs

11g

Recipe Categories (Choose a category and find related recipes!)

Soups, Stews & Chilis Lunch Sweets & Sides Side Dishes The Americas American Southern Vegetarian Vegan Gluten Free Summer Recipes Fall Recipes One Pot Meals

Recipe Tags (Choose a tag and find related recipes!)

15 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Course Cuisine Preparation Occasion North American Sauces Main Dish Condiments Etc Mexican Dietary Savory Sauces

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make Grandmother Merrill's Chili Sauce?

Grandmother Merrill's Chili Sauce takes about 13 minutes from start to finish — roughly 10 minutes to prepare and 3 minutes to cook.

How many calories are in Grandmother Merrill's Chili Sauce?

Grandmother Merrill's Chili Sauce has approximately 139.9 calories per serving, with about 2 g protein, 11 g carbohydrates and 0 g fat.

What ingredients do I need for Grandmother Merrill's Chili Sauce?

The key ingredients for Grandmother Merrill's Chili Sauce are Onion, Sugar, Salt, Cinnamon, Tomatoes, Vinegar. See the full list with measurements above.