Peppercorn BBQ Sauce combines the bold, spicy flavour of cracked black peppercorns with the rich, smoky taste of traditional barbecue sauce.
The creamy texture adds depth and balances the heat. This sauce was made to enhance grilled meats, especially steak, adding a unique twist that stands out from typical BBQ sauces.
Inspiration came from enjoying peppercorn sauces in classic dishes and wanting to create a smoky, tangy sauce with a peppery kick.
The main specialty of this sauce lies in its balance between heat, creaminess, and tangy sweetness. Next, a clear step-by-step guide will demonstrate how to prepare this flavorful sauce.
Why This Recipe Is A Must-Try?
This peppercorn BBQ Sauce recipe is a must try because it perfectly blends smoky, tangy, and creamy flavours with a spicy kick from fresh cracked peppercorns.
Its unique taste elevates any grilled meat or dish, making meals more memorable. Easy to prepare with common ingredients, it brings restaurant-quality flavour right to your kitchen.
Trying this Peppercorn BBQ Sauce will add excitement to your cooking and impress anyone you serve it to.
How To Prepare Peppercorn BBQ Sauce?
Recipe Details
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Course: Sauce / Condiment
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American (with French influence)
Yield: Makes about 2 cups
Kitchen Utensils Needed
- Medium saucepan or skillet
- Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Whisk
- Blender (optional, for a smoother texture)
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or oil of your choice)
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 shallots, peeled and finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tablespoon sunflower oil (or use pan drippings if making steak)
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- ¾ cup (180 ml) beef stock
- 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons brandy
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ cup (120 ml) double (heavy) cream
- 2 teaspoons freshly cracked whole black peppercorns
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
- Optional: Pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat
Instructions
1. Saute Aromatics:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter (or heat oil) over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, shallots, and garlic. Saute for 4–5 minutes until soft and translucent.
2. Deglaze & Flavor Base:
Stir in the sunflower oil (or steak drippings), followed by the apple cider vinegar. Allow it to simmer for 1–2 minutes to reduce slightly.
3. Add Tomato Base:
Mix in the tomato paste and cook for another 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Incorporate Liquids & Spices:
Add Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, Dijon mustard, beef stock, brown sugar, brandy, smoked paprika, chili powder, cracked peppercorns, and salt. Stir well to combine.
5. Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens and deepens in flavor.
6. Finish with Cream:
Lower the heat and stir in the double cream. Simmer for another 3–5 minutes, stirring until the sauce is smooth and velvety. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or cayenne if desired.
7. Optional – Blend for Smoothness:
For a smoother texture, carefully blend the sauce using an immersion blender or transfer to a regular blender. (Leave it chunky if you prefer a rustic texture.)
8. Serve:
Serve warm over grilled steak, ribs, chicken, or roasted vegetables. Also works as a dipping sauce or burger topping.
Nutrition Facts Of Peppercorn BBQ Sauce
| Nutrition | Amounts |
|---|---|
| Calories | 40 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 8 g |
| Sugars | 6 g |
| Fat | 1 g |
| Saturated fat | 0.2 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Protein | 0.5 g |
| Sodium | 150 mg |
Tips And Tricks For Making The Best Peppercorn BBQ Sauce
1. Use fresh cracked peppercorns for a stronger, fresher pepper flavour.
2. Don’t rush the simmering letting the sauce cook slowly deepens the flavors.
3. Use pan drippings or steak juices instead of oil for added richness if cooking meat.
4. Adjust sweetness and heat by adding more brown sugar or cayenne pepper to suit your taste.
5. Add brandy carefully a splash enhances flavor but avoid burning off all the alcohol.
6. Finish with cream off the heat to keep the sauce silky and prevent curdling.
Healthy Nutrition Benefits Of Peppercorn BBQ Sauce
Peppercorn BBQ sauce offers some nutritional benefits when made with wholesome ingredients. The black peppercorns provide antioxidants and can help boost digestion and metabolism.
Using tomato paste and apple cider vinegar adds vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C and potassium, supporting overall health.
By controlling sugar and cream amounts, you can keep the sauce flavorful yet balanced. Compared to many store-bought sauces, homemade versions like this avoid unnecessary preservatives and excess sodium, making it a healthier choice to enjoy with your meals.
Great Ways To Use Peppercorn BBQ Sauce
1. Brush it on grilled chicken, ribs, or steak for a peppery, tangy glaze.
2. Mix it into pulled pork or shredded beef sandwiches for extra flavor.
3. Use it as a dipping sauce for crispy fries, onion rings, or chicken tenders.
4. Drizzle over roasted vegetables or grilled tofu to add a savory punch.
5. Stir it into baked beans or chili for a spicy twist.
6. Spread it on burgers or wraps instead of regular ketchup for something different.
Is It Safe For Heart Patients?
Peppercorn BBQ sauce can be enjoyed by heart patients if made with mindful ingredient choices. Using moderate amounts of salt and sugar helps keep it heart-friendly.
The black peppercorns offer potential benefits like improved circulation, but the sauce’s cream and brandy content should be used sparingly.
Those with heart conditions should consult their healthcare provider before regularly consuming sauces with added fats or alcohol. Overall, homemade versions allow better control over ingredients, making it safer than many commercial BBQ sauces high in sodium and preservatives.
Proper Storage For Peppercorn BBQ Sauce
Proper storage of peppercorn BBQ sauce helps maintain its flavor and freshness. Store the sauce in an airtight container or jar and keep it refrigerated. It will stay good for up to one week.
Before using, give it a good stir, as some separation may occur. For longer storage, you can freeze the sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
When ready to use, thaw it slowly in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove. Avoid microwaving to preserve the sauce’s creamy texture.
Conclusion
I had so much fun making this easy and delicious peppercorn BBQ sauce, and I hope you feel inspired to try it yourself. The process is simple, and the results are truly satisfying.
I’m confident you’ll enjoy the bold flavours just as much as I did. Once you make it, please come back and share how delicious it turned out for you I’d love to hear your success story with this sauce! Happy cooking!
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Peppercorn BBQ Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter (or heat oil) over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, shallots, and garlic. Saute for 4–5 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Stir in the sunflower oil (or steak drippings), followed by the apple cider vinegar. Allow it to simmer for 1–2 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Mix in the tomato paste and cook for another 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, Dijon mustard, beef stock, brown sugar, brandy, smoked paprika, chili powder, cracked peppercorns, and salt. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens and deepens in flavor.
- Lower the heat and stir in the double cream. Simmer for another 3–5 minutes, stirring until the sauce is smooth and velvety. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or cayenne if desired.
- For a smoother texture, carefully blend the sauce using an immersion blender or transfer to a regular blender. (Leave it chunky if you prefer a rustic texture.)
- Serve warm over grilled steak, ribs, chicken, or roasted vegetables. Also works as a dipping sauce or burger topping.
Notes
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 40 kcal | Carbohydrates: 8 g | Sugars: 6 g | Fat: 1 g | Saturated fat: 0.2 g | Fiber: 0.5 g | Protein: 0.5 g | Sodium: 150 mg“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!”