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poyo poyo sauce

Poyo Poyo Sauce Recipe

Make the famous Pollo Tropical Spicy Poyo Poyo Sauce at home in just 10 minutes! This easy homemade copycat recipe is fresher, spicier & better – perfect for chicken, tacos & bowls!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 8 people
Calories 25 kcal

Equipment

  • High-speed blender
  • Food processor
  • Cutting board & knife
  • Measuring Cups & Spoons
  • Fine-mesh strainer
  • Glass jar or squeeze bottle
  • Gloves (latex/nitrile)

Ingredients
  

  • Pineapple juice
  • Orange juice
  • Lime juice
  • Fresh cilantro leaves and stems
  • Garlic cloves
  • Red onion
  • Thai chilies or habaneros
  • Honey or agave syrup
  • Apple cider vinegar
  • Salt
  • Ground cumin optional

Instructions
 

  • Prep Your Ingredients: Wash and roughly chop the cilantro, peel and mince the garlic (or leave whole if blending), finely chop the red onion, and seed/de-stem the chilies (wear gloves to avoid spice burn!). Measure out all juices, honey, vinegar, and salt. This mise en place makes assembly a breeze.
  • Blend the Base: In a high-speed blender or food processor, add the pineapple juice, orange juice, lime juice, cilantro, garlic, red onion, chilies, honey, vinegar, salt, and cumin (if using). Blend on high for 1-2 minutes until smooth and vibrant green-red hue appears. Stop and scrape down sides as needed.
  • Taste and Adjust: Give it a quick taste. Too spicy? Add more honey or pineapple juice. Not tangy enough? Splash in extra lime or vinegar. Blend again for 30 seconds if adjustments are made.
  • Strain for Smoothness (Optional): For a silkier texture like the restaurant version, pour through a fine-mesh strainer into a bowl, pressing solids with a spoon. Discard pulp or save for marinades.
  • Chill and Let Flavors Meld: Transfer to a jar or bottle. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) to let the flavors intensify. Shake well before using.
  • Serve and Enjoy: Drizzle over your favorite dishes! This Poyo Poyo Sauce recipe yields about 2 cups – plenty for multiple meals.