Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce has become my go-to for adding a burst of flavor to everything from ribs to chicken. I first discovered how amazing a fruity, spicy kick could be when I tried a friend’s homemade version at a summer cookout. The sweet tang of strawberries, the subtle heat from the jalapenos, and that warm bourbon finish just sang together, creating the most incredible flavor. It’s so much more exciting than a basic BBQ sauce! If you’re looking for a fantastic Strawberry jalapeno BBQ sauce recipe, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce
Get ready to fall in love with this unique sauce! It’s the perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and smoky that will elevate all your grilled favorites.
- It offers an amazing sweet and spicy flavor profile.
- This Homemade strawberry jalapeno BBQ sauce is surprisingly easy to make.
- The bourbon adds a sophisticated depth that complements the fruit and spice.
- It’s incredibly versatile, working wonders on ribs, chicken, pork, and even as a glaze for salmon.
- You can easily adjust the heat by changing the number of jalapenos used.
- This Homemade strawberry jalapeno BBQ sauce is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any cookout or gathering.
- It transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet condiment.
Ingredients for Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce
Gathering these ingredients is the first step towards an unforgettable Bourbon strawberry jalapeno sauce. I love how simple pantry staples combine with fresh produce to create something truly special.
- 6 cups strawberries, pureed – the star for sweetness and color
- 1 red bell pepper, pureed – adds a mild sweetness and vibrant color
- 1 onion, pureed – provides a savory base
- 4 jalapeno peppers, pureed – adjust this to control your heat level; for a milder sauce, remove the seeds and membranes
- 3/4 cup apple cider vinegar – for that essential tang
- 2 tsp dry mustard – a classic spice that adds depth
- 1 Tbsp canning salt – essential for preservation and flavor
- 2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce – for a savory, umami kick
- 1 Tbsp lemon juice – brightens all the flavors
- 1/8 cup bourbon – adds a warm, complex note that makes it special
- 2 tsp minced garlic – for a little aromatic punch
- 1/2 cup honey – to balance the heat and acidity
How to Make Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce
Creating this incredible sauce is a rewarding process, and the aroma alone is worth it! You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to make your own Spicy strawberry jalapeno BBQ sauce.
- Step 1: Begin by rinsing your 6 cups of strawberries thoroughly under cool water. Prepare your vegetables by roughly chopping the 1 red bell pepper, 1 onion, and 4 jalapeno peppers before pureeing them with the strawberries in a food processor until smooth.
- Step 2: Pour the pureed fruit and vegetable mixture into a large, heavy-bottomed pot. Add the 3/4 cup apple cider vinegar, 2 tsp dry mustard, 1 Tbsp canning salt, 2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 Tbsp lemon juice, 1/8 cup bourbon, 2 tsp minced garlic, and 1/2 cup honey. Stir everything together well.
- Step 3: Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot loosely, and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes. You’ll notice the sauce thickening and the flavors melding beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Step 4: After simmering, carefully ladle the hot sauce into clean canning jars. Make sure to leave about 1/2 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims of the jars clean to ensure a good seal, remove any air bubbles trapped in the sauce, and then place the canning lids on top.
- Step 5: Process the filled jars in a boiling water bath canner for 15 minutes. Ensure the water is at a rolling boil throughout the processing time. This step is crucial for preserving your delicious Spicy strawberry jalapeno BBQ sauce.
- Step 6: Once the processing time is complete, carefully remove the jars from the canner using tongs and place them on a towel-lined counter. Let them cool undisturbed for 24 hours. You’ll hear the satisfying “ping” as the lids seal. This makes for a fantastic Spicy strawberry jalapeno BBQ sauce that lasts!
Expert Tips for the Best Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce
Want to take your homemade sauce to the next level? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that guarantee a fantastic result every time.
- Don’t skip pureeing the ingredients! This creates a smoother, more consistent sauce, which is key for a good Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce.
- For a deeper bourbon flavor, you can simmer the bourbon with the other liquids for a few minutes before adding it to the pot.
- When adjusting the heat, remember that the seeds and membranes of the jalapenos hold most of the spice. Remove them for a milder sauce.
- A good quality bourbon will make a noticeable difference in the final flavor profile of your Bourbon strawberry jalapeno sauce.
What’s the secret to perfect Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce?
The real secret is the balance of sweet, spicy, and savory with a touch of that bourbon warmth. It’s what makes this a truly great Sweet heat BBQ sauce recipe.
Can I make Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! This is a fantastic sauce to make ahead. Once canned according to the instructions, it will last for months in your pantry. It’s perfect for meal prep!
How do I avoid common mistakes with Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce?
A common pitfall is not simmering long enough, which can result in a thin sauce. Also, be careful not to over-process the vegetables and strawberries, or the sauce can become too watery.
Best Ways to Serve Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce
This versatile sauce is a game-changer for all your favorite grilled and smoked dishes. Its unique flavor profile makes it incredibly adaptable. Try it as a sticky glaze for pork ribs or chicken wings during the last 15 minutes of grilling; the sugars caramelize beautifully. I also love brushing it onto salmon fillets before baking, creating a delightful Jalapeno strawberry bourbon glaze that’s both sweet and a little spicy. For a truly special pairing, serve it alongside pulled pork sliders or even drizzle it over grilled halloumi cheese for a vegetarian option that packs a punch.
Nutrition Facts for Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce
This delightful sauce brings a lot of flavor without a lot of calories. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving of this amazing Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce:
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 50
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 0g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in your Bourbon strawberry jalapeno sauce.
How to Store and Reheat Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce
Properly storing your homemade Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce ensures you can enjoy its fantastic flavor for months to come. After processing the jars in the water bath, let them cool completely on the counter for about 24 hours. Once sealed, store the jars in a cool, dark pantry. This canned Grilling sauce strawberry jalapeno bourbon will keep well for up to a year. If you don’t can it, store the sauce in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the sauce in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
To reheat, simply place the desired amount in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir gently until warmed through. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe dish for short intervals, stirring between each, until it reaches your preferred temperature. Avoid boiling it vigorously once reheated.
Frequently Asked Questions About Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce
What makes this the best strawberry jalapeno BBQ sauce?
The magic is in the balance! We combine sweet, pureed strawberries with the kick of fresh jalapenos and the warmth of bourbon. This creates a complex flavor profile that’s truly addictive and makes it the best strawberry jalapeno BBQ sauce for any occasion.
Can I make this sauce less spicy?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder heat, simply remove the seeds and white membranes from the jalapeno peppers before pureeing them. You can also start with just one or two jalapenos and add more to taste. This flexibility is key to making your perfect version of this fruity spicy BBQ sauce.
How long does homemade strawberry jalapeno BBQ sauce last?
When properly canned, this sauce will last for about a year in a cool, dark pantry. If you store it in the refrigerator without canning, it should stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Freezing is also an option for longer storage, keeping it good for up to 3 months.
What kind of bourbon should I use for this sauce?
You don’t need a top-shelf bourbon, but using a decent quality one will definitely enhance the flavor. A smooth, mid-range bourbon that you enjoy drinking will work wonderfully. It adds a subtle depth that makes this Bourbon strawberry jalapeno sauce so special and elevates it beyond a basic sweet heat BBQ sauce recipe.
Variations of Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the basic Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce, don’t be afraid to get creative! This recipe is a fantastic base for endless flavor explorations, and I love experimenting with different twists on this Fruity spicy BBQ sauce.
- Smoky Chipotle Kick: For a deeper, smokier heat, swap out one or two of the jalapenos for chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. This adds a lovely char and a different kind of spice.
- Mango-Habanero Fusion: Replace half of the strawberries with ripe mango and use habanero peppers instead of jalapenos for a tropical, intensely spicy version. This creates a vibrant and exotic Fruity spicy BBQ sauce.
- Low-Sugar Version: If you’re watching your sugar intake, try substituting the honey with a sugar-free alternative like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. You might need to adjust the amount slightly to achieve the desired sweetness.
- Grilled Fruit Enhancement: For an extra layer of flavor, grill some of the strawberries and bell peppers before pureeing them. This adds a lovely char and caramelization that really elevates the sauce.
Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce: 5 Amazing Tips
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This homemade strawberry jalapeno bourbon BBQ sauce offers a sweet and spicy flavor profile perfect for grilled meats. The combination of pureed strawberries, bell peppers, onions, jalapenos, and bourbon creates a unique and delicious condiment.
Ingredients
- 6 cups Strawberries: Pureed
- 1 red Bell Pepper
- 1 Onion
- 4 Jalapeno Peppers
- 3/4 Cup Apple Cider Vinegar
- 2 tsp Dry Mustard
- 1 Tbsp Canning Salt
- 2 Tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 Tbsp Lemon Juice
- 1/8 cup Bourbon
- 2 tsp Minced Garlic
- 1/2 Cup Honey
Instructions
- Rinse the strawberries.
- Puree the strawberries, onion, and peppers using a food processor.
- Add all ingredients to a large pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then simmer for at least 30 minutes.
- Ladle the sauce into canning jars.
- Wipe the rims, remove air bubbles, and add lids.
- Process the jars in a water bath canner for 15 minutes at a rolling boil.
- Remove the jars and let them cool on the counter without disturbing them for 24 hours.
Notes
- Adjust the number of jalapeno peppers to control the spice level.
- This strawberry jalapeno bourbon BBQ sauce is excellent on ribs, chicken, and pork.
- Experiment with other fruit and jalapeno combinations for different BBQ sauces.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Sauces and Condiments
- Method: Canning
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
