Rhubarb BBQ Sauce Recipe is a tangy, sweet, and spicy condiment made with rhubarb, vinegar, sweeteners, spices, and chipotle peppers.
It’s perfect for grilling, glazing meats, or dipping. This Rhubarb BBQ Sauce Recipe brings out the vibrant taste of rhubarb, balanced by maple syrup, chipotle peppers, and warm spices.
I made this Rhubarb BBQ Sauce Recipe after seeing a rustic version on a countryside cooking show, which instantly inspired me.
The main specialty of this Rhubarb BBQ Sauce Recipe lies in its surprising mix of tart rhubarb and smoky chipotle. Now I will show step by step how it’s made.
What Makes This Rhubarb BBQ Sauce Recipe Special?
The Rhubarb BBQ Sauce Recipe offers a distinctive combination of tangy and sweet flavors that create a refreshing twist on traditional barbecue sauces.
The natural tartness of rhubarb cuts through the richness, while the mix of brown sugars and maple syrup provides a balanced sweetness.
Vinegars add a sharp, acidic note that brightens the overall profile. The chipotle peppers introduce a smoky heat that lingers gently on the palate.
Together, these ingredients create a rich, complex sauce that adds exciting flavor to grilled meats and vegetables.
How To Prepare Rhubarb BBQ Sauce Recipe?
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Course: Sauce / Condiment
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American
Yield: Makes about 3 cups of sauce
Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and chopping board
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup chopped rhubarb (fresh or frozen)
- 4 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- ⅔ cup water
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon canola oil
- ⅔ cup packed dark brown sugar
- ½ cup dark corn syrup
- 1½ teaspoons hot pepper sauce
- 2 to 3 chipolata chiles in adobe sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegan Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
1. Cook The Aromatics
Heat some canola oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for about 3–4 minutes until it softens. Stir in minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute or two until the mixture becomes fragrant.
2. Add Rhubarb And Liquids
Add chopped rhubarb to the pan along with water, ketchup, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, and cider vinegar. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
3. Stir In Sweeteners And Flavourings
Add both types of brown sugar, maple syrup, corn syrup, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and a bit of salt. Stir everything together until well mixed.
4. Add The Chipolata
Finely chop the chipolata peppers in adobe and stir them into the sauce. Let it simmer over medium-low heat for about 20–25 minutes, stirring now and then.
5. Blend (Optional)
If you prefer a smoother texture, let the sauce cool slightly, then blend it either with an immersion blender or in batches using a standard blender.
6. Cool And Store
Once the sauce has cooled completely, transfer it to a clean, sterilised jar or container.
Nutrition Facts Per Serving
| Nutrition | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 50 kcal |
| Fat | 0.5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Sugars | 10 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
Secrets To Perfect Rhubarb BBQ Sauce Recipe
➢ Use fresh or properly thawed rhubarb for the best natural tartness.
➢ Finely chop chipotle chiles to evenly distribute smoky heat without overwhelming the sauce.
➢ Stir frequently during cooking to prevent sticking and to blend all ingredients smoothly.
➢ Balance sweetness carefully by combining brown sugar, maple syrup, and corn syrup.
➢ Simmer the sauce slowly to develop deep, rich flavors and to soften the rhubarb completely.
Amazing Serving Ideas Rhubarb BBQ Sauce Recipe
➣ Brush the sauce onto grilled chicken or pork ribs for a flavorful glaze.
➣ Use as a dipping sauce for crispy fried tofu or vegetable spring rolls.
➣ Serve alongside burgers or sandwiches as a zesty condiment to enhance every bite.
➣ Mix into baked beans to add a tangy, smoky dimension.
➣ Drizzle over roasted vegetables like cauliflower or Brussels sprouts for extra taste.
Best Variations Rhubarb BBQ Sauce Recipe
1. Add fresh peaches or mangoes for a fruity twist that enhances sweetness and adds brightness.
2. Incorporate smoked paprika and cayenne pepper to increase smoky heat and depth.
3. Use honey instead of maple syrup to give the sauce a floral sweetness and thicker texture.
4. Mix in finely chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or thyme for an herbaceous note.
5. Substitute apple cider vinegar with red wine vinegar for a sharper, tangier flavor profile.
Storage & Make Ahead
Store Rhubarb BBQ Sauce Recipe in an airtight container or glass jar in the refrigerator. The Rhubarb BBQ Sauce Recipe keeps well for up to two weeks, allowing flavors to deepen over time.
For longer storage, freeze the Rhubarb BBQ Sauce Recipe in portions using freezer safe containers or bags, lasting up to three months.
Making the Rhubarb BBQ Sauce Recipe ahead of time helps save preparation on busy days and allows the ingredients to meld together for enhanced taste.
Thaw frozen sauce overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can I Reduce The Sweetness?
Reduce the brown sugar and corn syrup quantities slightly.
Does The Sauce Thicken As It Cools?
Yes, it thickens upon cooling, becoming richer in texture.
Can Frozen Rhubarb Be Used Instead Of Fresh?
Yes, frozen rhubarb works well and can be used directly in the recipe.
How Spicy Is This BBQ Sauce?
The chipolata chiles add a moderate smoky heat, adjustable by the amount used.
Is This Sauce Vegan?
Yes, all ingredients are plant-based, making it vegan friendly.
Rhubarb BBQ Sauce Recipe was easy to make and brought delicious success to my kitchen. The balance of flavors made every bite enjoyable and satisfying.
I hope this simple Rhubarb BBQ Sauce Recipe inspires you to try it yourself soon. Once you make it, I’d love to hear how tasty you found it and how it elevated your meals.
Enjoy creating this flavourful Rhubarb BBQ Sauce Recipe and sharing it with friends and family!
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Rhubarb BBQ Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat some canola oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for about 3–4 minutes until it softens. Stir in minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute or two until the mixture becomes fragrant.
- Add chopped rhubarb to the pan along with water, ketchup, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, and cider vinegar. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add both types of brown sugar, maple syrup, corn syrup, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and a bit of salt. Stir everything together until well mixed.
- Finely chop the chipolata peppers in adobe and stir them into the sauce. Let it simmer over medium-low heat for about 20–25 minutes, stirring now and then.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, let the sauce cool slightly, then blend it either with an immersion blender or in batches using a standard blender.
- Once the sauce has cooled completely, transfer it to a clean, sterilised jar or container.
Notes
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 50 kcal | Fat: 0.5 g | Carbohydrates: 12 g | Sugars: 10 g | Protein: 0 g“Hi, I’m Samia, a passionate recipe creator with 5 years of experience in crafting delicious, unique dishes. My love for cooking has led me to explore a variety of cuisines, combining flavors to create memorable meals for every occasion. Whether it’s a simple weeknight dinner or an elaborate feast, I believe in making every dish special. Join me on my culinary journey as I share easy-to-follow recipes and tips that will inspire your cooking and bring joy to your kitchen!”