Cherry Habanero BBQ Sauce

Samia

Cherry Habanero BBQ Sauce

Cherry Habanero BBQ Sauce is a sweet, spicy, and tangy condiment that blends the bold flavor of ripe cherries with the fiery heat of habanero peppers. Ideal for grilling, it adds depth to meats, burgers, and vegetables. This unique sauce balances fruity sweetness and intense spice, creating a rich, complex flavor perfect for adventurous taste buds and BBQ lovers alike.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 35

Total Time 45

Servings: 4 cups

Course: Sauce / Condiment

Cuisine: American

Calories: 110

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

1 ½ cups cherry preserves
1 habanero pepper deseeded and finely chopped
2 cloves garlic minced
1 medium yellow onion finely chopped
1 teaspoon olive oil
2 cups tomato sauce
¾ cup ketchup
½ cup orange juice
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
¼ cup molasses
⅔ cup dark brown sugar
2 teaspoons white pepper freshly ground
½ teaspoon dry mustard
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon chipotle powder
⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
¼ teaspoon salt

Equipment

Medium saucepan
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
Blender or immersion blender (optional, for smoother texture)
Measuring cups and spoons
Storage jars or containers

Method

Saute Aromatics:

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and saute for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Add the Heat:

Stir in the chopped habanero and cook for 1–2 minutes to release its flavour.

Combine Ingredients:

Add cherry preserves, tomato sauce, ketchup, orange juice, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, molasses, and butter to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.

Season It:

Mix in the brown sugar, white pepper, dry mustard, onion powder, chipotle powder, cayenne pepper, and salt. Stir thoroughly.

Simmer the Sauce:

Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for about 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows it to thicken and develop deeper flavour.

Blend (Optional):

For a smoother consistency, let the sauce cool slightly and blend using an immersion blender or in batches in a regular blender.

Cool & Store:

Allow the sauce to cool completely. Transfer to jars or airtight containers and refrigerate. It will keep for up to 2 weeks.

Notes

Nutrition Facts