Go Back
Vidalia Onion BBQ Sauce
Samia

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.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 3 cups
Course: Sauce / Condiment
Cuisine: American / Southern-style
Calories: 60

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

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)

Method
 

Saute onions:
  1. 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:
  1. 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:
  1. Add soy sauce, ketchup (or tomato paste mix), brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, honey/molasses, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Mix well.
Simmer:
  1. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken and deepen in colour.
Optional addition:
  1. 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):
  1. For a smoother sauce, allow it to cool slightly and blend using an immersion blender or counter top blender.
Taste & adjust:
  1. Add salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust sweetness, acidity, or spice as desired.
Cool & store:
  1. Let sauce cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Notes

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 60 | Fat: 2.5 g | Carbohydrates: 10 g | Sugars: 8 g | Protein: 0.5 g | Sodium: 200 mg