rhubarb bbq sauce recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best rhubarb bbq sauce recipe

I’ve always been a fan of unique flavor combinations, and rhubarb BBQ sauce is one of my favorites. It’s a bit sweet, a bit tangy, and completely addictive.

I first discovered rhubarb BBQ sauce at a local farm-to-table restaurant, where it was served as a side dish to grilled meats. I was hooked from the very first bite, and I knew I had to recreate it at home.

Rhubarb has a unique flavor that’s both sweet and tart, making it a perfect addition to BBQ sauce. When you combine the two, you get a flavor that’s both familiar and excitingly new.

I love that this recipe is perfect for everyday meals, but it’s also impressive enough to serve at special occasions like holiday gatherings or summer barbecues. The best part?

It’s surprisingly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients. One of the reasons I adore this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can use it as a marinade, a glaze, or even as a dipping sauce.

My family loves when I serve this with grilled chicken or pork chops, but it’s also delicious on burgers or as a topping for nachos.

Rhubarb BBQ Sauce

4.8 from 1444 votes

This tangy and sweet barbecue sauce uses fresh rhubarb for a unique twist. It is perfect for glazing grilled chicken, pork, or ribs.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 2 cupsCuisine: InternationalCalories: 60 kcal per 2 tbsp

🥘Ingredients

For the Sauce

2 cups chopped fresh rhubarb (about 4 stalks)
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup ketchup
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Combine the chopped rhubarb and water in a medium saucepan.
2Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rhubarb is very soft and has broken down.
3Remove the saucepan from the heat.
4Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to puree the rhubarb until smooth, or carefully transfer the mixture to a blender and blend until smooth.
5For a smoother sauce, press the puree through a fine-mesh strainer to remove any fibrous bits.
6Return the rhubarb puree to the saucepan.
7Add the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, honey, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using.
8Stir well to combine.
9Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low.
10Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and reduced by about one-quarter.
11The sauce should coat the back of a spoon.
12Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or a pinch of sugar to balance the tartness.
13Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring to a jar or container.
14Refrigerate for up to two weeks.

🔧Equipment

Medium saucepan
Wooden spoon or spatula
Blender or immersion blender
Fine-mesh strainer (optional)
Glass jar or airtight container for storage

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 60 kcal🧈Total Fat: 0g💛Saturated Fat: 0g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 280mg🌾Total Carbs: 15g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 12g🥩Protein: 0g

📝Notes

For a milder sauce, omit the cayenne pepper. This sauce can be canned using a water bath method for longer storage. Adjust sweetness to your preference by varying the brown sugar or honey.

Watch Video Of How Rhubarb BBQ Sauce Works

This rhubarb BBQ sauce recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just want something new to try for dinner.

It’s also an amazing addition to your favorite sides like baked beans or coleslaw.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how well it stores – simply refrigerate or freeze it and use within days or weeks as needed.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Rhubarb BBQ Sauce

Q1: What is the origin of rhubarb BBQ sauce?

Rhubarb has been used in cooking for centuries, particularly in European cuisine. The tart flavor of rhubarb pairs perfectly with sweet flavors like sugar and honey.

Q2: How do you make rhubarb BBQ sauce from scratch?

To make this recipe from scratch, you’ll need fresh or frozen rhubarb, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.

Q3: Can I use store-bought rhubarb BBQ sauce instead of making it from scratch?

While store-bought sauces can be convenient, they often lack the depth of flavor that comes from using fresh ingredients.

Q4: How long does rhubarb BBQ sauce last in the fridge?

This recipe will keep for up to 2 weeks in the fridge when stored in an airtight container.

Q5: Can I freeze rhubarb BBQ sauce for later use?

This recipe freezes beautifully for up to 6 months when stored in an airtight container or freezer bag.

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