How much vinegar to 1 gallon of hot sauce?

There's no set amount of vinegar to use in 1 gallon of hot sauce. It depends on several factors, including:

* Desired acidity: How much vinegar you add will determine how sour your hot sauce is.

* Type of vinegar: Different vinegars have varying levels of acidity. Apple cider vinegar is less acidic than white vinegar.

* Other ingredients: The other ingredients in your hot sauce will affect how much vinegar you need to balance the flavors.

* Personal preference: Ultimately, it's up to your taste!

General guidelines:

* Start with a small amount: A good starting point is about 1/4 cup of vinegar per gallon of hot sauce.

* Taste as you go: Add the vinegar slowly, tasting as you go until you reach your desired level of sourness.

* Adjust based on the other ingredients: If you are using a lot of sweet ingredients, you may need more vinegar. If you are using a lot of spicy ingredients, you may need less.

Tips for achieving the right acidity:

* Use a pH meter: This will give you a precise measurement of the acidity of your hot sauce.

* Taste test with a neutral base: Dip a piece of plain bread or cracker into your hot sauce to get a true sense of the acidity.

* Let it sit: The acidity of your hot sauce will mellow over time, so taste it again after a few days.

Remember, making hot sauce is all about experimentation! Don't be afraid to adjust the vinegar amount until you find a flavor profile you love.