Looking for a spicy twist on classic barbecue? Try this Spicy Strawberry Barbecue Sauce for your summer recipes!
Are you the type of person to go overboard when picking strawberries and end up with more than you know what to do with? *raises hand* This describes me. There’s something so intoxicating about a strawberry field that’s been warmed by the sun and smells like hay and ripened fruit. Hence the excess of strawberries!
If you’re a long time reader of this blog, you’ll know that I do a lot more savory recipes than sweet. And up until now, I never ever combine savory AND sweet (with the possible exception of this recipe). However, the other day I just had a craving for fruity barbecue sauce, and that’s how this recipe was born. If you’ve never tried one of my recipes, and are looking for a sign to finally give one a go, this is it! I tested this recipe 3 times to make sure it was perfect. You won’t think that the ingredients will go together, but once you blend it all up and taste the spicy sweet smokiness, you’ll be totally hooked! This strawberry barbecue sauce tastes AMAZING on veggie burgers, but also delish as a dip! I know you’ll love this recipe!!
Strawberry Barbecue Sauce FAQs
Is this strawberry barbecue sauce made without ketchup?
Yes, this is made without ketchup! Instead of relying on ketchup, which has artificial dyes, this barbecue sauce gets its natural color and sweetness from strawberries (plus a little maple syrup!).
Is this an easy strawberry barbecue sauce to make?
Absolutely! There are no fancy techniques or appliances needed to make this – all you need to do is chop, sauté, and blend!
What makes this strawberry barbecue sauce spicy?
Using chipotle chili powder and hot paprika makes this recipe spicy. However, you can use regular smoked paprika instead of chipotle chili powder for less spice. Please note that you shouldn’t omit BOTH the chipotle powder and smoked paprika… both spices give this sauce it’s quintessential smoky flavor. So be sure not to skip!
How can I use this sauce?
This sauce is super versatile! You can use it to –
- As a marinade for grilled meats and vegetables
- On top of burgers or veggie burgers
- Spread on a quesadilla
- As a dip for fries
- Drizzled over grilled peaches
- As the sauce base for pizza
Spicy Strawberry Barbecue Sauce
Ingredients
- 2 Cups Strawberries chopped
- 2 Cloves Garlic chopped
- 2/3 Cup Red Onion chopped
- Neutral Vegetable Oil for sautéing
- 2 Tbs Water
- 4 Tbs Maple Syrup
- 2 Tbs Apple Cider Vinegar
- 2 Tsp Chipotle Chili Powder see notes
- 2 Tsp Hot Paprika or Cayenne
- 1 Tsp Fresh-Cracked Black Pepper
- 1 Tsp Salt
Instructions
- In a saucepot, add in a drizzle of a neutral vegetable oil and bring the pot to medium heat. Add in chopped red onion and sauté until onions are soft, which will take about five minutes.
- Add in the chopped garlic and sauté until garlic is fragrant, a little under a minute. Be careful not to let garlic burn!
- Then, add in the strawberries and water, and stir. Simmer on medium heat for 5 minutes, covered.
- Keeping the pot on medium heat, add in the salt, spices, apple cider vinegar, and maple syrup. Stir, and simmer uncovered for about 7-8 minutes.
- When done, take the pot off the heat and let cool COMPLETELY before adding it to the blender.
- Pour the cooled mixture into a blender, and blend until the barbecue sauce is smooth.
- Enjoy!
Notes
- Depending on what chipotle powder you use, the barbecue sauce may come out more or less spicy. If that’s not your thing, sub in smoked paprika instead!
- For extra spice, add in a bit of red pepper flakes while sautéing.
P.S.
If you make this recipe and post it on Instagram, be sure to tag me @wellandfull and #wellandfull so I can see! I love seeing your takes on my recipes :)
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