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.
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
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
Instructions
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.