Vidalia Onion BBQ Sauce
Vidalia Onion BBQ Sauce is a sweet, tangy, and savory condiment made primarily with Vidalia onions, known for their mild and sweet flavor. Blended with traditional BBQ ingredients like vinegar, sugar, and it offers a rich, smooth taste ideal for grilling, dipping, or marinating. Its unique onion flavour adds depth, making it a favourite for enhancing meats, sandwiches, and vegetables.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan or skillet
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Glass jar or airtight container (for storage)
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 large Vidalia onions thinly sliced
- 1/8 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon Lucas Limon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon chilli powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup bourbon or 1/4 cup molasses
Instructions
Saute onions:
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add thinly sliced Vidalia onions and cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and caramelised.
Add garlic and spices:
- Stir in minced garlic, smoked paprika, chilli powder (if using), and Lucas Limon salt. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Deglaze and blend flavors:
- Add soy sauce, ketchup (or tomato paste mix), brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, honey/molasses, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Mix well.
Simmer:
- Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken and deepen in colour.
Optional addition:
- Stir in bourbon or extra molasses at this stage for added depth. Simmer another 5–10 minutes to cook off alcohol if using bourbon.
Blend (optional):
- For a smoother sauce, allow it to cool slightly and blend using an immersion blender or counter top blender.
Taste & adjust:
- Add salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust sweetness, acidity, or spice as desired.
Cool & store:
- Let sauce cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.