Welcome to the tantalizing fusion of flavors that dance harmoniously on your taste buds– Apple Bourbon BBQ Sauce.
This delectable concoction marries the sweet tang of ripe apples with the rich, smoky notes of bourbon, creating a symphony of taste that elevates any dish to gourmet status.
Whether slathered generously over grilled meats, used as a dipping sauce for crispy fries, or brushed onto veggies for a caramelized finish, this sauce promises a culinary journey unlike any other.
Prepare to tantalize your senses and elevate your dining experience with each savory, sweet, and spirited bite of this BBQ Sauce.
How To Make Apple Bourbon BBQ Sauce?
Preparation Times: 10 minutes
Cooking Times: 25 minutes
Course: Condiment
Cuisine: American
Yields: Approximately 3 cups
Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Jar or airtight container for storage
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon neutral oil (olive oil)
- 2 cups unsweetened applesauce
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup apple cider
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
Step-1. Sauté Garlic
Heat the neutral oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
Step-2. Combine Ingredients
Stir in the unsweetened applesauce, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, apple cider, bourbon, brown sugar, onion powder, ground mustard, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well.
Step-3. Simmer
Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-low heat. Reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer.
Step-4. Cook and Thicken
Let the sauce cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes or until it reaches your desired thickness.
Step-5. Adjust Seasoning
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
Step-6. Cool and Store
Remove the sauce from heat and let it cool slightly. Transfer to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate until ready to use.
Nutrition Facts Of Apple Bourbon BBQ Sauce
| Nutrition | Amounts |
|---|---|
| Calories | 70 kcal |
| Total Fat | 0.4g |
| Sodium | 252mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 13.9g |
| Sugars | 11.5g |
Serving Suggestions
1. Grilled Meats
Brush onto grilled chicken, pork, or ribs for an extra burst of flavor.
2. Sandwiches
Use as a spread for sandwiches or burgers to add a sweet and tangy kick.
3. Dipping Sauce
Serve alongside sweet potato fries or onion rings as a delicious dipping sauce.
Tips and Variations
1. Spice Level
Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the sauce’s heat level.
2. Smoky Flavor
Add a dash of liquid smoke for a deeper, smokier taste.
3. Maple Syrup
Substitute brown sugar with maple syrup for a slightly different flavor profile.
Special Note
Experiment with the sauce’s consistency by adjusting the cooking time to achieve your preferred thickness.
Health Benefits Of Apple Bourbon BBQ Sauce
✱ Applesauce adds natural sweetness and fiber to the sauce.
✱ Garlic and onion powder provide immune-boosting properties.
✱ Moderation is key with bourbon, but it can add depth of flavor and antioxidants.
FAQS
Can I use non-alcoholic bourbon in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute non-alcoholic bourbon or omit it entirely if preferred.
Is this sauce gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce.
How long can I store this sauce?
This sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Can I freeze this sauce?
Yes, you can freeze this sauce in an airtight container for up to three months.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?
Yes, feel free to adjust the amount of brown sugar to suit your taste preferences.
Conclusion
Crafting your own apple bourbon BBQ sauce is not only rewarding but also allows you to tailor the flavors to your liking.
With a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes, this versatile condiment is sure to elevate your dishes to new heights of deliciousness.
So, gather your ingredients and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will delight your taste buds and impress your guests.
Apple Bourbon BBQ Sauce
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Jar or airtight container for storage
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon neutral oil olive oil
- 2 cups unsweetened applesauce
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup apple cider
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Heat the neutral oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the unsweetened applesauce, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, apple cider, bourbon, brown sugar, onion powder, ground mustard, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-low heat. Reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer.
- Let the sauce cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes or until it reaches your desired thickness.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
- Remove the sauce from heat and let it cool slightly. Transfer to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate until ready to use.
Notes
Welcome to Arora’s Sauce Recipe, where every drop tells a story of tradition, innovation, and a boundless love for culinary arts. My name is Brazen, and I am the founder and chief sauce creator at Arora’s Kitchen. Born into a family with a rich heritage of culinary arts, I grew up surrounded by the aromas of spices and the sounds of simmering pots, which ignited my passion for cooking from a young age.
Inspired by generations of culinary expertise, I embarked on a professional quest to capture these fleeting aromas and flavors in bottles of sauce that could bring a gourmet experience to every meal.
As the founder of Arora’s Sauce Recipe, my mission is to inspire your culinary adventures with the finest sauces. Whether you’re a professional chef or a home cook, our sauces are crafted to elevate your cooking with every spoonful.
Thank you for choosing Arora’s Sauce Recipe. Here’s to a journey filled with flavor, passion, and unforgettable meals.