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Nothing says summer like a backyard barbecue! Whether you're grilling beef patties, sizzling chicken thighs, or roasting ears of sweet corn, the perfect barbecue is never complete without that signature sweet and spicy honey BBQ sauce. For years, I dutifully stocked up on big-name brands of bottled BBQ sauce, trusting that ubiquitous high fructose corn syrup ingredient list. But the more I read about the potential health effects of excessive added sugars, the more I knew I had to find a homemade option without it. And so began my quest to craft the ultimate no-fructose BBQ sauce recipe that could rival any store-bought variety with its deep, rich flavor and tenderizing properties. Join me as I take you through the simple process of bringing this now-signature summer condiment to life straight from my kitchen to yours.
This Homemade BBQ Sauce Recipe is simply outstanding
To truly embrace the essence of every season, I love hosting impromptu winter Barbecues! Some may think it's a bit crazy to be grilling outside when there's snow on the ground, but fear not! I clear a path and move the grill closer to the house. Trust me, you have to give it a try. This recipe is absolute magic. It's like returning to those warm summer nights, filling our hearts with joy and creating an incredibly cheerful atmosphere. Grilling adds a delightful twist to the usual winter stews and hearty soups, making meals more exciting and enjoyable.
The secret is in the sauce
What makes this Honey BBQ sauce truly stellar are the ingredients you use in this recipe. A few of these ingredients make this sauce better without having to be scratch-made. I love shortcuts and what I love even more is sharing them with you!
- Eastern Shore Honey
- Prepared mustard
- Worcestershire sauce
- Apple Cider Vinegar
- Fresh garlic
- Herbs of Provence
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Johnny’s Salt (the one with no msg)
- Fresh ginger
- Paprika
- Ground cinnamon
- Artisan ketchup (corn syrup-free)
- Blackstrap molasses
- Coconut sugar
How to make BBQ Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together all the above ingredients until well blended. Store in a sealed glass container. This recipe will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a month or two.
How to thicken BBQ sauce
The easy way to thicken sauces is with corn syrup, but that was not an option for us. Instead, we offer honey, an inherently viscous syrup, the honey and Blackstrap molasses will also serve this purpose in this recipe.
Adapting our Honey BBQ Sauce Recipe:
You know, a recipe is not truly perfect until you’ve added your own touch to it. That’s why we encourage you to play with your food. Let your inner chef come out and play and change up this recipe. Have fun! Here are some ideas:
- Add some heat to the BBQ Sauce by mixing in sliced jalapeños, your favorite sriracha sauce or dried crushed red peppers.
- Experiment with the honey you use- Clover and Spring would be perfect to start with.
- Stuck inside despite good weather? That's ok, try this sauce on a wonderful Slow Cooker Brisket.
- Marinate seasonal vegetables with the sauce, lightly grill, and serve with BBQ Brisket, or load the ingredients on metal skewers and make kebabs, or use this on a whole chicken or chicken parts.
This Honey BBQ sauce recipe will hit the spot for all your seasonal grilling needs. Sweet, spicy, and smoky all in one bite - this sauce is sure one to impress friends and family. The only requirement for this BBQ sauce was that it did not contain any high fructose corn syrup - you'll be able to feel good about eating a tasty sauce that isn't compromising your health! Plus, it can be ready in just under an hour so you won't have to spend too much time away from the great outdoors this summer. Why not give this amazing recipe a try? You'll be so impressed with how delicious and easy it is to make. And don't forget to share your creation with friends and family - there's no better weekend treat than indulging in some homemade BBQ sauce!
If you make this honey BBQ sauce, take a photo and share them with us using #beeinspired on Instagram. We love seeing your photos!
