fresh peppers: 60–70% jalapeños and serranos (bulk body and approachable heat), 20–30% tabasco peppers (fruity Louisiana character), 5–10% piquin peppers (intense heat — use sparingly) • garlic cloves, peeled and smashed (optional but recommended for depth) • small onion, quartered (optional, for sweetness and layers) • Brine: 3–5% salt solution (e.g., 3–5 tbsp kosher or sea salt per quart unchlorinated water). Use 3% for milder saltiness • White vinegar (or apple cider vinegar) — roughly equal parts to mash volume, adjusted to taste/consistency • Additional salt to taste • Sugar (balances heat) • Xanthan gum (pinch for smoother texture) • Spices like mustard seed/black pepper • Wide-mouth glass jars (quart or half-gallon • Fermentation weights or clean Ziploc bag with brine • Airlock lids (or loose regular lids for burping) •
