But if we tell you that there is a sauce that is not only special in taste but also has the depth of Mexican culture, tradition and history hidden in it – then you would definitely want to know its name. Yes, we are talking about – ‘Cholula Hot Sauce’, which is counted among the most popular hot sauce brands in the world today.
What is Cholula Hot Sauce?
Cholula Hot Sauce is a special kind of Mexican chili sauce, which is known for its unique wooden lid bottle and balanced spiciness. This sauce is made by mixing two special types of Indian chilies – Árbol and Piquín – with vinegar, garlic, cumin, oregano and some secret spices. Its taste is very balanced – neither too strong nor bland. Mild sourness, aroma and spiciness – everything in a perfect blend.
Whether you love Mexican food, American fast food or are fond of Asian flavours – Cholula goes well with every kind of food. Whether you pour it on eggs, mix it in soup, sprinkle it on pizza or stir it into pasta – every bite of it makes the food delicious.
The secret behind the name ‘Cholula’
This hot sauce is named after a historic city ‘Cholula’ in the state of Puebla, Mexico. This city is one of the oldest settlements in America and its civilization is believed to be about 2,500 years old. The cultural, religious and food heritage here is so rich that naming this sauce after it is a way to pay respect to that tradition.
However, the origin of Cholula sauce is not that old. It was prepared in the early 20th century. It is believed that it was first made by the Jose Cuervo family, who are famous in Mexico for their strong liquor ‘tequila’. Later this recipe was handed over to the Harrison family who gave it the form of a brand and launched it in the market.
Which spices make it special?
The biggest feature of Cholula sauce is that the spices added to it neither make it too spicy nor let it lose its taste. Let’s know about its special ingredients:
- Chili de Árbol – Long, thin and red chilies, which are known for their spiciness.
- Piquín Pepper – Small round peppers, which have a very strong taste and aroma.
- Vinegar and salt – For taste as well as to preserve it for a long time.
- Garlic, cumin and oregano – These spices create a depth and layered flavor in the sauce.
The result of all this mixture is a sauce whose Scoville Heat Unit (SHU) score is between 1000 and 2000. This is a scale to measure spiciness. As you can tell from its intensity, it is neither too strong nor too bland – meaning it can be easily used in everyday cooking.
Special Identity – Wooden Lid Bottle
If you see Cholula Hot Sauce for the first time, its bottle will immediately attract you. Its round, wooden lid bottle has become a symbol of tradition, craftsmanship and quality. It is not just for show, but this lid helps in taking out the sauce slowly and in the right quantity.
The label of its bottle has a picture of a Mexican woman, who is in traditional attire. This design and packaging indicates how much this brand is connected to the culture and roots of its country.
Growing popularity in America and the rest of the world
Cholula Hot Sauce was launched in America in 1989. Initially it was famous only among those who liked Mexican food, but then its popularity started increasing day by day. This was because of its balanced taste – which was neither spicy nor plain – but made every dish delicious.
People started adding it to eggs for breakfast, mixing it in soups, mixing it in salad dressings and even using it in cocktails like ‘Bloody Mary’. Chefs, bartenders and home cooks – everyone adopted it with open arms.
International expansion
In 2018, L Catterton, an American investment company, bought Cholula and planned to take it to the world markets. Then in 2020, McCormick & Company bought it for $800 million. This company is a leader in spices and flavorings worldwide.
Today, Cholula sauce is sold in more than 20 countries. Although it has now become an international brand, its recipe, packaging and culture still retain the Mexican identity.
Not just one taste – six unique flavors
Cholula’s ‘Original’ sauce is the most famous, but now the brand has launched six different flavors of it in the market, keeping in mind the preference of the people. Each flavor is identified by the color of its cap:
- Original (red cap) – Balanced spiciness and most popular taste
- Green Pepper – A sour-spicy blend of green chilies like jalapeno and poblano
- Chipotle – Smokey aroma and deep taste
- Chili Lime – A combination of the freshness of lemon and the intensity of chili
- Chili Garlic – The strong smell of garlic and the solidity of chili
- Sweet Habanero – A unique combination of sweet and spicy, which also includes fruity sweetness
Each flavor is special in itself and can take the taste of your food to a different level.
Cholula: An identity of culture beyond taste
Cholula is not just a spicy sauce. It is a vibrant identity of Mexican culture, history and culinary tradition. It explains how a small product can reach the hearts and kitchens of people across the world – if it has taste, tradition and honesty.
Whether you add it to dal-rice, spread it on sandwiches, mix it in pasta or sprinkle it on pizza – Cholula makes every meal special.
Where to get Cholula in India?
If you want to enjoy this Mexican taste even while staying in India, then do not worry. Cholula Hot Sauce is available in many supermarkets in India, like Rimping Supermarket. Apart from this, you can also order it from many online platforms.
Conclusion
The story of Cholula Hot Sauce shows that if a product has the identity of the country, the authentic taste ,and the spirit of the people, then it can be popular anywhere in the world. It is not just a mix of spices, but the taste of the soul of Mexico.
