Fig BBQ Sauce
Fig BBQ Sauce combines sweet dried figs, honey, and smoky spices for a rich, flavourful condiment. This sauce offers a unique twist on traditional BBQ with natural sweetness and a hint of warmth from smoked paprika and cumin. Easy to prepare, it enhances grilled meats, vegetables, and sandwiches. Homemade and versatile, Fig BBQ Sauce adds depth and complexity, making every meal more delicious and memorable.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Heatproof bowl (for soaking figs)
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried figs roughly chopped
- 1 cup hot water for simmering figs
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ¾ cup yellow onion finely chopped (about ½ medium onion)
- ½ cup shallot diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary chopped
- ¼ cup tomato paste
- ¼ cup brown sugar packed
- 3 cups honey
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or chipolata powder
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
Soften The Figs
- Place the chopped dried figs in a bowl and pour 1 cup of hot water over them. Let them sit for about 10 minutes so they can absorb the liquid and soften up.
Cook The Aromatics
- In a medium-sized saucepan, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and shallots, and cook for about 5 minutes, until they’re soft and just starting to turn translucent.
Add Garlic And Rosemary
- Toss in the minced garlic and chopped rosemary. Stir everything around for another minute or two, just until the garlic smells fragrant.
Stir In Tomato Paste And Spices
- Next, mix in the tomato paste, along with the smoked paprika (or chipolata powder), cumin, ground cloves, and black pepper. Let it cook for another minute or so to bring out the flavour.
Add Figs And Liquids
- Pour the softened figs and their soaking water into the pan. Then add the balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, honey, and Worcestershire sauce. Give it all a good stir so everything is well mixed.
Let It Simmer
- Turn the heat down to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for about 15 to 20 minutes. Stir it now and then, until it thickens and the flavours come together.
Blend (If You Want It Smooth)
- If you prefer a smooth sauce, you can use an immersion blender right in the pan. Or, let it cool a bit, then blend it in a regular blender until it’s nice and smooth.
Final Taste Check
- Give it a taste and add salt or more pepper if needed.
Cool And Store
- Let the BBQ sauce cool down completely. Then pour it into a clean jar or bottle.
Notes
If you use fresh figs instead, skip the water or reduce it because fresh figs carry more moisture. Simmer until the texture is right, then blend.