Meet your new favorite pantry staple.

This vinegar is the perfect finishing touch to add to a whole slew of dishes.

Learn how to make homemade hot pepper vinegar, and always have a bottle on hand.

southern hot-pepper vinegar

Credit:Victor Protasio; Food Stylist: Rishon Hanners; Prop Stylist: Audrey Davis

Consider this a basic infusion formula that you could add to or tweak at your leisure.

The colorful presentation and long shelf life also makes this hot-pepper vinegar a lovelyfood gift.

Discard if the vinegar becomes cloudy or develops an off smell.

total)

5medium-size red Fresno chiles (3 5/8 oz.

total)

1medium-size banana wax pepper (2 3/4 oz.)

Remove and discard garlic cloves; immediately pour vinegar mixture over peppers.

Cool, then chill:

Let cool completely, about 3 hours.

Yes, some cooks will top off the sauce with additional vinegar to keep the mixture going.