How to prepare Sierra Leone SAWA SAWA sauce. 🇸🇱

Chop the fresh chili peppers, onion, garlic, and ginger finely.

Heat vegetable oil in a saucepan over medium heat until shimmering.

Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger to the pan and sauté until fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they break down, about 5-7 minutes.

Add the chopped chili peppers to the mixture and stir well.

Pour in vinegar and water, then add salt, black pepper, and sugar.

Add bay leaves and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.

Remove bay leaves and blend the sauce until smooth, if desired.

Stir in lime juice and adjust seasoning to taste.

Let the sauce cool before serving or storing.

Serve as a condiment with grilled meats or rice dishes.