Florida BBQ Sauce

Samia

Florida BBQ Sauce combines fresh citrus juices, honey, and spices to create a bright, tangy, and slightly sweet flavour. This unique sauce enhances grilled meats and seafood with its refreshing tropical twist and smoky undertones. Easy to prepare and full of vibrant taste, it adds a delicious,lively touch to any meal, making it a flavourful Favorited.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Total Time 25

Servings: 2 cups

Course: Sauce / Condiment

Cuisine: American / Floridian

Calories: 50

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
½ cup fresh orange juice
¼ cup pineapple juice
⅓ cup lime juice
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
½ cup honey
2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
½ to 2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes adjust heat preference

Equipment

Medium saucepan
Measuring cups and spoons
Zester or fine grater (for lemon zest)
Citrus juicer (for orange, lime, and lemon)
Airtight container or jar (for storage)
Whisk or spoon for stirring

Method

In a medium saucepan, add ketchup, fresh orange juice, pineapple juice, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Whisk together until smooth. Stir in smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the honey, lime juice, grated lemon zest, and crushed red pepper flakes. Continue to simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The sauce should thicken slightly.
Taste the sauce and adjust salt, pepper, or cayenne pepper as needed for desired flavor and heat. Remove from heat and let the sauce cool before transferring to a jar or airtight container. Refrigerate until ready to use. The flavors will deepen after a few hours or overnight.

Notes

Using fresh Florida orange juice makes a noticeable difference in flavor compared to store-bought concentrate.

It gives the sauce that vibrant, zesty punch. The pineapple juice adds natural sweetness and acidity but can be swapped for more orange juice if you prefer a less sweet sauce.

Adjust cayenne pepper according to your preference. Florida BBQ sauce can be mild or spicy, so don’t be shy to tweak.

This sauce works beautifully on grilled chicken, pulled pork, shrimp, and even as a dipping sauce for fries or onion rings.

Nutrition Facts