Get ready to transform your ordinary BBQ experience into an extraordinary culinary adventure with this mind-blowing Cranberry Bourbon BBQ Sauce! Imagine a sauce that perfectly balances sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors, with a sophisticated bourbon kick that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you're a grill master or a weekend cooking enthusiast, this recipe is about to become your secret weapon for creating show-stopping dishes that will have everyone begging for your recipe.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 cups
Ingredients
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberry sauce, bourbon, ketchup, and brown sugar over medium heat. Whisk the ingredients together until they are fully incorporated and smooth.
- Add apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder to the mixture. Stir thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly throughout the sauce.
- Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, reducing the heat to low. Allow the mixture to cook slowly, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.
- Continue simmering the sauce for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until it thickens to a desired consistency. The sauce should reduce and become slightly glossy.
- Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper as needed. Adjust the seasoning to balance the sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let the sauce cool for 5-10 minutes. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Transfer the Cranberry Bourbon BBQ Sauce to a clean glass jar or airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Use a good-quality bourbon and homemade or high-end cranberry sauce for the best flavor profile.
- Low and Slow is the Way to Go: Simmer the sauce on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together and develop depth.
- Consistency is Key: Keep stirring occasionally to prevent burning and achieve that perfect glossy texture.
- Taste and Adjust: Don't be afraid to tweak the seasonings. The magic is in finding your perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and smoky.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This sauce actually gets better after a day in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to intensify.
- Versatility Tip: Use this sauce not just for grilling, but as a glaze for roasted meats, a dipping sauce, or even a unique sandwich spread.
- Storage Hack: Store in an airtight glass container and it will keep in the refrigerator for up to a week, making meal prep a breeze.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 90kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
