Terminado. I'm finished. Done! Literally translated as "finished" from Spanish, terminado is the past participle of the adjective terminar.
Growing up in Eastover, SC, and later in Lugoff, SC, I was always surrounded by gardens. From tilling acres of land to tending a modest backyard garden, I developed an early obsession with peppers. Their vibrant growth in our climate, the vast varieties, and the explosive energy they stored fascinated me.
When my wife and I bought our first house, I eagerly replaced the old bushes with my own garden. That first year, my tomato and pepper plants thrived, producing an abundant harvest. Faced with an overwhelming amount of produce, I scoured the internet for recipes. I tried everything—dried peppers, seasonings, bloody mary mixes, pasta sauces. If it included peppers or tomatoes, I made it. One day, I stumbled upon a hot sauce recipe. After blending peppers and vinegar with a few other ingredients, I found the result underwhelming. That’s when I discovered fermentation, and it changed everything.
Fermenting peppers became my new passion. The following year, I grew super hot varieties like ghost peppers, scorpions, and Carolina reapers, creating some of the hottest sauces imaginable. Sharing my creations at family events and work lunches became a joy, sparking conversations and delight. It was during these experiments that I stumbled upon a rudimentary version of what I now call Terminado.
After producing nearly 100 bottles and still having people clamoring for more, I knew it was time to sell my sauce. My ambitious side dreamed big, seeking a name that could stand out in the competitive market. The letter "T" kept coming to mind. Months later, I discovered the word "terminado" and instantly fell in love. Inspired by the concept, I dubbed my creation a "finishing sauce," perfect for adding a flavorful finale to any dish.
The bold flavors of Terminado: The Finishing Sauce complement a wide array of dishes, particularly tacos, fish, pizza, and even mixed with ketchup for fries. While it packs a powerful punch, Terminado is best enjoyed in moderation—just a few drops on top of your food. Paired well, the heat becomes bearable, and two drops can transform an entire meal.
I invite you to try Terminado and experience the flavor revolution for yourself. Whether you're a heat enthusiast or a flavor connoisseur, my finishing sauce will elevate your culinary creations. Share your experiences and join the growing community of Terminado fans!