Honey Habanero BBQ Sauce

Samia

Honey Habanero BBQ Sauce

Honey Habanero BBQ Sauce blends sweet honey and fiery habanero peppers for a bold, balanced flavor. Smoky spices, tangy vinegar, and a hint of citrus create depth and complexity. This homemade sauce enhances grilled meats, vegetables, and marinades. Easy to prepare and full of character, it delivers a sweet heat kick that transforms everyday meals into something unforgettable.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Total Time 25

Servings: 2 cups

Course: Condiment / Sauce

Cuisine: American/BBQ

Calories: 60

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

1 cup ketchup
½ cup honey
¼ cup apple cider vinegar
2 cloves garlic minced
½ tsp ground cumin
½ tsp onion powder
1 tbsp lemon juice
¼ tsp ground ginger
1 habanero pepper finely chopped (remove seeds to reduce heat)
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt & black pepper to taste
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Equipment

Medium saucepan
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
Blender or immersion blender
Garlic press or knife and cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk
Jar or airtight container (for storage)

Method

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add a splash of oil and saute the minced garlic and chopped habanero pepper for 1–2 minutes, just until fragrant. Stir in the ketchup, honey, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice.
Add smoked paprika, cumin, onion powder, ginger, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until everything is fully combined. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken slightly as it cooks.
For a smoother texture, carefully blend the sauce using an immersion blender or transfer to a regular blender once slightly cooled. Let the sauce cool completely before transferring to a jar or airtight container.

Notes

Handle habanero with care use gloves or wash hands thoroughly after. Adjust heat by adding fewer seeds, or tossing in another half habanero for extra kick. You can also refine the texture with a touch of cornstarch slurry or extra simmer time to thicken it up.

Nutrition Facts