This Baringham’s Chili Sauce recipe captures a balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors that elevate any dish. It’s a versatile condiment perfect for topping meats, adding to stews, or spreading on sandwiches. The rich blend of tomatoes, onions, peppers, and spices makes it a timeless recipe. Chili sauce like this is a pantry staple, adding homemade warmth to any meal. This version has a deep history of being a go-to for home cooks, thanks to its ability to preserve garden-fresh flavors long after harvest. If you’re looking for a vintage recipe that stands the test of time, this one is perfect.
Food History

Baringham’s Chile Sauce
Food History
Chili sauce has been a kitchen classic for centuries, with roots tracing back to homemade preservation methods for garden produce. In the 19th century, home cooks often created chili sauces to enhance bland dishes with robust flavors. They used fresh tomatoes, onions, and peppers combined with a variety of spices, relying on vinegar for preservation. Recipes like this one became essential in colder months when fresh produce was scarce. The addition of warming spices, such as cinnamon and allspice, not only enhanced flavor but also added a comforting element to the dish. Baringham’s Chili Sauce reflects this tradition, blending sweet and savory elements for a classic result.
Timeline
- 1800s: Chili sauce emerges as a way to preserve fresh tomatoes and peppers.
- Early 1900s: Recipes incorporate vinegar and sugar for a longer shelf life.
- Mid-1900s: Home canning becomes a widespread practice, and chili sauce gains popularity as a versatile condiment.
- Today: Vintage chili sauce recipes like this one continue to offer bold, nostalgic flavors.
Recipe Discussion
Baringham’s Chili Sauce is closest to traditional tomato-based chili sauces but includes an extra dose of sweetness and spice. The base of fresh tomatoes, onions, and peppers provides a vibrant flavor, while cider vinegar adds tanginess. The mix of white sugar, cloves, and cinnamon balances the tartness with warmth and sweetness. This recipe calls for slow boiling, which melds the flavors beautifully. It’s not overly spicy, making it adaptable for different palates. The cloves and allspice give it a unique depth, reminiscent of old-fashioned relishes or chutneys.
Preparation Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Baringham’s Chili Sauce turns out perfectly:
- Tomato Prep: Peel your tomatoes for a smoother sauce. Drop them in boiling water for a few seconds, then into cold water, and the skins will slip off easily.
- Consistent Chopping: Chop the onions, peppers, and celery evenly to ensure a uniform texture.
- Stir Frequently: Stir often while boiling to prevent sticking or scorching.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a spicier sauce, increase the red pepper or cayenne. For a milder sauce, reduce these spices slightly.
- Canning Tips: If preserving, sterilize your jars and lids thoroughly to avoid spoilage.
- Use Fresh Spices: For the best flavor, ensure your ground spices haven’t gone stale.
Recommended Kitchen Products
The links below lead to top-rated products on Amazon—if you use our links, we can save more recipes.
- Tomato Peeler: A high-quality peeler simplifies removing tomato skins.
- Heavy-Duty Stockpot: Perfect for slow cooking and boiling this sauce.
- Canning Kit: Includes jars, a jar lifter, and tools to preserve your chili sauce safely.
Serving Suggestions
This chili sauce pairs well with a variety of meals. Here are some ideas:
- Over Meatloaf: Use as a tangy topping to enhance the flavor.
- Side for Roast Meats: Serve alongside roast chicken, pork, or beef.
- Mix Into Beans: Stir into baked beans for added flavor.
- Sandwich Spread: Use as a condiment on burgers, sliders, or cold sandwiches.
- Glaze for Barbecue: Brush onto ribs or chicken for a sweet, smoky glaze.
The Perfect Sauce to Add Depth to Your Meals
Baringham’s Chili Sauce is a recipe that brings together simplicity and bold flavor. Whether you’re a fan of traditional relishes or want to try your hand at preserving seasonal produce, this chili sauce is a must-have. It’s perfect for home cooks who value old-fashioned recipes with a modern twist. This sauce is both versatile and easy to prepare, making it a delightful addition to any kitchen.
Baringham’s Chile Sauce Recipe
Baringham's Chile Sauce
A sweet and tangy chili sauce made from fresh tomatoes, onions, peppers, and warming spices. Perfect for canning or serving with meats and sandwiches.
Ingredients
Put through a coarse food grinder.
- 30 large tomatoes
- 6 large peaches
- 6 large pears
- 6 large onions
- 3 large red sweet and 3 green peppers
Add
- 3 1/2 cups white sugar
- 3 Tablespoons salt
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons mace
- 2 teaspoons cloves
- 2 teaspoons allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper
- 3 cups cider vinegar
Instructions
- Chop the the fruits and vegetables into small pieces.
- Put through a coarse food grinder.
- Add sugar, salt, and spices to a large pot with the cider vinegar.
- Simmer for 1½ to 2 hours, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.

Susan
Tuesday 10th of December 2024
The vintage recipe card for this Baringham's Chili Sauce actually reads:
Baringham's Chili Sauce. Delicious. 30 large tomatoes 6 large peaches 6 large pears 6 large onions 3 large red sweet and 3 green peppers
Put through a coarse food grinder.
3 1/2 cups white sugar 3 Tablespoons salt 2 teaspoons cinnamon 2 teaspoons mace 2 teaspoons cloves 2 teaspoons allspice 1/4 teaspoon red pepper 3 cups cider vinegar
Boil 1 1/2 to 2 hours stirring constantly.
Vintage Recipes
Tuesday 10th of December 2024
Thank you this one is hard to read. We appreciate your help!!!