Standing at my kitchen counter, I couldn’t help but smile as the scent of strawberries filled the air, mingling with the fiery kick of jalapenos. This Sweet and Spicy Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce is my new go-to for summer grilling. Imagine turning your weekend barbecue into a memorable feast with this homemade gem that’s not only quick to whip up but also perfect for canning. The combination of sweet strawberries and zesty jalapenos offers a delightful twist, elevating any grilled meat to restaurant-quality status. And let’s not forget that hint of bourbon that wraps everything up with a smooth finish. Whether you’re meal prepping for a crowd or looking to impress friends at your next cookout, this sauce is sure to please. Curious about how to make this irresistible addition to your pantry? Let’s dive in!
Why is this BBQ Sauce a Must-Try?
Uniqueness: This sauce brings an unexpected combination of sweet and spicy, making your BBQ moments truly memorable.
Flavor Explosion: Sweet strawberries paired with fiery jalapenos create a taste that tantalizes the senses, while bourbon adds a depth that’s hard to resist.
Canning Convenience: Perfect for preserving, this recipe allows you to enjoy your homemade BBQ sauce months down the line—just like with Strawberry Shortcake Whipped or Soy Sauce Fried delights!
Versatility: Ideal for grilling, it complements not only meat but also vegetables and even satisfies as a dipping sauce for your summer appetizers.
Easy and Quick: With simple instructions, you’ll whip this up in no time, making it an ideal choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs looking to add an exciting twist to their meals.
Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce Ingredients
For the Sauce
• Fresh Strawberries – Provides sweetness and a fruity base for the sauce; feel free to substitute with other berries for a unique twist.
• Jalapenos – Adds heat and depth; reduce the quantity or remove seeds to lower the spice level to your preference.
• Onions – Contributes flavor and sweetness; use yellow or white onions interchangeably for great results.
• Bourbon – Enhances flavor with a smooth finish; apple cider vinegar can be used for a non-alcoholic option.
• Vinegar (Apple Cider or White) – Provides essential acidity to balance sweetness; critical for preservation when canning.
• Sugar – Sweetens the sauce; consider honey or maple syrup for a different sweetener profile.
• Garlic (optional) – Adds aromatic richness; feel free to omit it if you prefer a cleaner taste.
This delightful Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce brings a perfect balance of sweet and spicy to your summer dishes!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
Start by rinsing 2 cups of fresh strawberries under cool water to remove any dirt or debris. Remove the green stems and any mushy spots. Once cleaned, set them aside on a clean kitchen towel to dry slightly. This initial step is essential for ensuring the sweet flavor of your Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce shines through in the final product.
Step 2: Blend the Mixture
In a food processor, combine the prepared strawberries, 1 cup of chopped onions, and 2-3 jalapenos (adjust according to your heat preference). Blend the mixture until it reaches a smooth consistency, or pulse to leave some small chunks for texture. This should take about 1-2 minutes. If you prefer a chunkier sauce, an immersion blender is a great alternative for this step.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in a Pot
Transfer the pureed strawberry mixture to a large pot and add in 1 cup of apple cider vinegar, 1 cup of sugar, and 1/2 cup of bourbon. Stir to combine all the ingredients thoroughly, ensuring the sugar is well distributed. This mixture will create a bright, enticing aroma that signals the flavor explosion to come with your Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce.
Step 4: Heat and Simmer
Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the sauce to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and watch for the sauce to thicken and deepen in color, signaling that the flavors are melding beautifully.
Step 5: Prepare for Canning
While the sauce is simmering, ensure your canning jars are prepared by sterilizing them in boiling water for about 10 minutes. Once your Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce reaches the desired thickness, it’s time to ladle the hot sauce into the prepared jars. Utilize a funnel to avoid spills and leave about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top.
Step 6: Seal the Jars
After filling the jars, take a damp cloth and carefully wipe the rims to remove any residue that could prevent a proper seal. Secure the lids onto each jar tightly, ensuring they are sealed without over-tightening, which could prevent vacuum formation during processing. This step helps in preserving the delicious flavors of your BBQ sauce effectively.
Step 7: Process the Jars
Place the sealed jars in a boiling water bath, ensuring they’re fully submerged. Process the jars for 15 minutes to safely preserve your Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce. The boiling water will create a vacuum seal as they cool, allowing your sauce to be shelf-stable for months to come.
Step 8: Cool and Store
After processing, carefully remove the jars from the boiling water bath and place them on a kitchen towel. Allow them to cool undisturbed for 24 hours at room temperature. As they cool, listen for the satisfying “pop” of the lids sealing, ensuring your homemade sauce is ready for storage and enjoyment.
Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delicious recipe; your kitchen is your canvas!
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Heat Level Adjustment: Start with fewer jalapenos for a milder sauce or replace them with habaneros for a spicier kick. Each pepper brings its unique flavor profile, so you can really tailor the heat to suit your taste.
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Sweet Berry Swap: Substitute fresh strawberries with blackberries or raspberries for a different fruit-infused flavor. The tangy sweetness of these berries offers a delightful surprise!
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Fruity Twist: Incorporate diced peaches for half of the strawberries for a tropical vibe. This addition brings a lovely sweetness and pairs wonderfully with grilled meats.
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Herbal Infusion: Add chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to enhance the freshness and depth of flavor. The greenery not only brightens your sauce but also provides an aromatic lift.
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Kick Up the Umami: Introduce a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce to deepen the savory notes. This little boost can transform your BBQ sauce into something truly extraordinary.
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Bourbon-Free Option: Replace bourbon with apple cider vinegar for a non-alcoholic twist that maintains the acidity and flavor balance perfectly. It keeps everything zesty without the kick!
Don’t forget to try your new flavors on grilled meats or as a dip for your next gathering—think grilled chicken or a fresh veggie platter! For an amazing dessert treat, why not pair your efforts here with something like Strawberry Banana Pudding?
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce preparations are perfect for busy cooks who want to save time during the week! You can make the sauce itself up to 3 days in advance; simply prepare it as usual, allow it to cool completely, and store it in airtight jars in the refrigerator. This not only helps the flavors meld but also ensures that your sauce is just as delicious when you’re ready to use it. To finish up, just reheat the sauce gently on the stove before serving or canning. With these make-ahead tips, you can enjoy the satisfaction of homemade BBQ sauce any day of the week without the last-minute rush!
What to Serve with Sweet and Spicy Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce
Imagine transforming your summer meals into tantalizing, flavorful feasts with ideal pairings that elevate each bite.
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Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken transforms when drizzled with this sweet and spicy sauce, creating an unforgettable flavor contrast. Perfect for summer cookouts!
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Pork Ribs: The sauce clings beautifully to tender, slow-cooked ribs, enhancing their natural richness with a fruity kick that will leave everyone wanting more.
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Vegetable Skewers: Char-grilled vegetables come alive with a brush of the BBQ sauce, marrying sweet strawberries and zesty spice for a refreshing, colorful dish.
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Burgers: Add a unique twist to your classic burger by slathering it with this sauce. The bold flavors will elevate your backyard barbecues to new heights.
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Corn on the Cob: Brush warm corn on the cob with the sauce just before serving for a delightful burst of flavors. It’s a summertime staple made extraordinary!
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Dipping Sauce for Appetizers: Use this sauce as a dipping sauce for crispy chicken wings or onion rings. It offers a delightful contrast with its sweet and spicy profile that your guests will adore.
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Cheese Platter: Complement a cheese board with this BBQ sauce for an eye-catching addition that enhances creamy cheeses with its vibrant flavors, inviting conversation over a glass of wine.
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Ice Cream Treat: Surprisingly, a drizzle of this BBQ sauce makes for a unique topping over vanilla ice cream, blending sweet and spicy for a memorable dessert experience.
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Sparkling Water: Keep your palate refreshed between bites with a crisp, bubbly sparkling water, which balances the richness of grilled meats and enhances the overall meal experience.
Expert Tips for Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce
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Balance the Heat: If you’re unsure about spice levels, start with fewer jalapenos. You can always add more later to reach your desired heat in your Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce.
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Sterilization Matters: Properly sterilize your canning jars before filling them to prevent spoilage. A boiling water bath for 10 minutes does the trick.
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Flavor Fusion: Allow the sauce to sit for a few days before using. This resting period helps the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
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Adjust Sweetness: If you want a different sweet profile, consider substituting sugar with honey or maple syrup. Experiment to find your perfect balance!
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Check for a Seal: After processing your jars, ensure they’ve sealed properly by pressing the center of each lid. If it pops back, it hasn’t sealed, and you’ll need to refrigerate that jar.
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Enjoy Locally: Use locally sourced strawberries and jalapenos for a fresher taste and to support your local farmers while making this delicious BBQ sauce!
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce
Fridge: Keep your opened jars of strawberry jalapeno bourbon BBQ sauce sealed in the fridge for up to 3 weeks. Always use a clean spoon to avoid contamination.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the sauce in airtight containers or freezer bags. It can last up to 6 months in the freezer without losing flavor.
Canning Shelf Life: When properly canned, your sauce will hold its quality for 1-1.5 years on the shelf. Store jars in a cool, dark place for best results.
Reheating: To enjoy your sauce after refrigeration or freezing, simply heat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, bringing back all those delightful flavors!
Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe strawberries for the sauce?
When choosing strawberries, look for bright red, plump berries that are firm to the touch. Avoid any with dark spots, mold, or a mushy texture, as these indicate overripeness. The sweeter the strawberries, the better your Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce will turn out!
How should I store the BBQ sauce once opened?
After opening, keep your strawberry jalapeno bourbon BBQ sauce sealed in the refrigerator. It can last up to 3 weeks. Remember to use a clean spoon every time you dip in to prevent contamination, ensuring it stays fresh for your next grilling session.
Can I freeze the BBQ sauce for later use?
Absolutely! To freeze the sauce, pour it into airtight containers or freezer bags, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. It will retain its delicious flavor for up to 6 months in the freezer. To thaw, simply place it in the fridge overnight or warm it gently on the stove.
What should I do if the sauce is too spicy?
If you find your sauce has turned out spicier than expected, don’t worry! You can balance the heat by adding a little more sugar or fruit—like strawberries or peaches—to mellow the spice. Alternatively, you can mix in some unsweetened tomato sauce to dilute the heat without losing the BBQ essence.
Can this sauce be made vegan or gluten-free?
Yes! To make a vegan version, simply replace the bourbon with apple cider vinegar, which will still provide a lovely flavor. For gluten-free needs, ensure your vinegar and any additional ingredients are certified gluten-free, and you’ll have a delightful sauce suitable for everyone at the table!
How long can I store the canned BBQ sauce?
When properly canned, your strawberry jalapeno bourbon BBQ sauce can last for 1 to 1.5 years on the shelf. Store it in a cool, dark place to maintain its quality. Make sure to check for a secure seal on the jars to ensure freshness!
Irresistibly Sweet Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by rinsing the fresh strawberries under cool water to remove any dirt or debris. Remove the green stems and any mushy spots. Set them aside to dry slightly.
- In a food processor, combine the prepared strawberries, chopped onions, and jalapenos. Blend the mixture until smooth, or pulse to leave small chunks.
- Transfer the pureed mixture to a large pot and add in apple cider vinegar, sugar, and bourbon. Stir to combine thoroughly.
- Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the sauce to a gentle boil. Then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- While the sauce simmers, sterilize your canning jars in boiling water for about 10 minutes.
- Ladle the hot sauce into prepared jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top.
- Wipe the rims of the jars to remove any residue and seal the lids tightly.
- Process the sealed jars in a boiling water bath for 15 minutes to preserve the sauce.
- Remove jars from the boiling water bath and let them cool undisturbed for 24 hours.
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