Are you ready to elevate your grilling game? This BBQ sauce with grape jelly recipe is a game-changer. Forget store-bought sauces packed with preservatives – this homemade version is unbelievably easy, incredibly delicious, and bursting with that unique sweet and tangy flavor that's perfect for ribs, chicken, pulled pork, or even as a dipping sauce for fries! It’s a quick dinner idea that’s both healthy and satisfying. Let's get started on this journey to homemade cooking perfection!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup grape jelly
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions:
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the ketchup, grape jelly, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
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Simmer and Stir: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Thicken the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded beautifully. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
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Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want to add more brown sugar for extra sweetness, apple cider vinegar for more tang, or cayenne pepper for extra heat.
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Cool and Serve: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the BBQ sauce cool completely before serving. This allows the flavors to deepen further. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Cooking Tips for BBQ Sauce Perfection:
- Use good quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the sauce will taste. Look for high-quality ketchup and grape jelly.
- Don't rush the simmering process: Allowing the sauce to simmer gently for the recommended time allows the flavors to develop fully and the sauce to thicken properly.
- Adjust to your taste: This recipe is a guideline. Feel free to experiment with different amounts of each ingredient to create your perfect BBQ sauce.
Variations:
- Spicy BBQ Sauce: Increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.
- Honey BBQ Sauce: Replace the brown sugar with an equal amount of honey for a slightly different sweetness.
- Bourbon BBQ Sauce: Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of bourbon for a smoky, sophisticated twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Protein: 1-2g
- Fat: 0-1g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Sugar: 18-22g
This easy BBQ sauce recipe is perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks. It's a delicious and versatile addition to any meal, transforming simple grilled meats and vegetables into unforgettable culinary experiences. Enjoy!