Quarantine Project 'Picky Ricky' Roasted Jalapeño & Garlic Hot Sauce, Colorado

Deep, savory aromatics and measured heat define Quarantine Project 'Picky Ricky' Roasted Jalapeño & Garlic Hot Sauce, Colorado, a sauce that showcases a more restrained, culinary-driven expression of spice rooted in balance and everyday versatility.

Product Details:

• Producer: Quarantine Project Hot Sauce
• Owner & Creator: Rick DeSimone
• Style: Roasted jalapeño hot sauce with garlic emphasis
• Ingredients: Roasted jalapeño peppers, garlic, vinegar, and complementary natural ingredients
• Production Philosophy: Small-batch, flavor-first sauces designed to enhance food rather than overwhelm it
• Dietary Notes: Vegan, gluten-free, low sodium, no added sugar

Sensory Description:

Picky Ricky leans into the softer, more approachable side of heat, where roasted jalapeño brings a mellow, slightly smoky warmth layered with the rich savoriness of garlic. The palate opens with a gentle, rounded spice before expanding into umami-driven depth, where the roasting process adds subtle sweetness and complexity. The finish is smooth and lingering, making this an exceptionally versatile sauce that enhances without overpowering, ideal for those who value flavor integration over intensity.

Producer’s Background:

Quarantine Project Hot Sauce was founded by Rick DeSimone in Denver after an unexpected moment of discovery during the COVID-19 lockdown. What began as experimentation with a pantry hot sauce kit quickly evolved into a deeper pursuit of more complex, flavor-driven recipes built around fresh ingredients and culinary balance. Early enthusiasm from friends and customers helped turn the project into a growing Colorado brand with a strong local following.

DeSimone’s approach rejects heat for heat’s sake in favor of sauces designed to complement food, adding dimension, brightness, and personality to the plate. As the brand has expanded into broader retail and restaurant visibility, it has remained rooted in small-batch craftsmanship, community connection, and the idea that hot sauce should be both expressive and highly usable at the table.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve at room temperature. Ideal for tacos, breakfast burritos, and eggs, where the roasted jalapeño and garlic amplify savory flavors without overwhelming them. Excellent on grilled meats, burgers, and sandwiches, or as a base for sauces, marinades, and dips that benefit from gentle heat and depth. Use generously to build flavor across a wide range of everyday dishes.