Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce has officially changed my grilling game, and I know it will change yours too! I remember the first time I tasted a truly balanced sweet and spicy sauce – it was at a summer barbecue, and the aroma alone was incredible. This homemade version captures that magic, with the warmth of bourbon, the sweetness of strawberries, and a kick from fresh jalapenos. It’s not just a condiment; it’s an experience. If you’ve ever wondered how to make strawberry jalapeno bourbon BBQ sauce that wows your guests, you’re in the right place. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds sing. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce
Get ready to elevate your grilling with this amazing sauce!
- The perfect balance of sweet and spicy strawberry jalapeno sauce flavor.
- Impress guests with a truly unique and gourmet taste.
- Quick and easy to make, with a prep time of just 30 minutes.
- A healthier alternative to store-bought sauces, packed with fruit.
- Budget-friendly, using common pantry staples and fresh produce.
- A delightful sweet and spicy strawberry jalapeno sauce that appeals to most palates.
- Kids and adults alike will love this vibrant, flavorful addition to their meals.
- It’s incredibly versatile, perfect for everything from ribs to chicken.
Ingredients for Homemade Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon Sauce
Making this delicious Bourbon BBQ sauce with strawberry and jalapeno is simpler than you might think! Here’s what you’ll need to gather:
- 6 cups strawberries, pureed – the sweet, fruity base of our sauce
- 1 red bell pepper, pureed – adds a mild sweetness and vibrant color
- 1 onion, pureed – provides depth of flavor and a savory note
- 4 jalapeno peppers, pureed – adjust to your spice preference for that perfect kick
- 3/4 cup apple cider vinegar – for a tangy, acidic balance
- 2 tsp dry mustard – adds a subtle sharpness
- 1 Tbsp canning salt – essential for preservation and flavor
- 2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce – for that umami depth
- 1 Tbsp lemon juice – brightens up all the flavors
- 1/8 cup bourbon – the star ingredient for that signature warmth and complexity
- 2 tsp minced garlic – for a pungent aroma and taste
- 1/2 cup honey – enhances the natural sweetness and helps with caramelization
How to Make Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce
Ready to create your own batch of this amazing sauce? It’s easier than you think, and the aroma filling your kitchen will be incredible!
- Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This initial heat is crucial for the canning process later.
- Step 2: Prepare your produce. Rinse the 6 cups of strawberries thoroughly. Then, in a food processor, combine the pureed strawberries with the 1 red bell pepper, 1 onion, and the 4 jalapeno peppers. Process until smooth.
- Step 3: Gather a large pot. Combine the pureed fruit and vegetable mixture with the remaining ingredients: 3/4 cup apple cider vinegar, 2 tsp dry mustard, 1 Tbsp canning salt, 2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 Tbsp lemon juice, 1/8 cup bourbon, 2 tsp minced garlic, and 1/2 cup honey. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Step 4: Place the pot over medium-high heat. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring occasionally. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken, creating a wonderful strawberry jalapeno bourbon glaze.
- Step 5: While the sauce simmers, prepare your canning jars. Sterilize 6 pint-sized canning jars and their lids according to manufacturer instructions.
- Step 6: Once the sauce has simmered and thickened to your liking, carefully ladle the hot strawberry jalapeno bourbon BBQ sauce into the sterilized jars, leaving about a 1/2-inch headspace at the top. This consistency is perfect for a smooth strawberry jalapeno bourbon glaze.
- Step 7: Wipe the rims of the jars clean with a damp cloth to ensure a good seal. Remove any air bubbles trapped in the sauce by running a clean spatula around the inside of the jars. Secure the lids tightly.
- Step 8: Process the filled jars in a water bath canner. Ensure the water is at a rolling boil and the jars are fully submerged. Process for 15 minutes.
- Step 9: Carefully remove the jars from the canner and place them on a towel-lined counter. Let them sit undisturbed for 24 hours to allow the seals to set. You’ll know they’re sealed if the lids are concave and don’t flex when pressed.
Pro Tips for the Best Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce
Want to make your sauce truly unforgettable? Here are a few tricks I’ve picked up:
- Always use ripe, fresh strawberries for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Don’t skimp on the simmering time; it really allows the flavors to meld into that perfect sweet and spicy strawberry jalapeno sauce.
- Taste and adjust the jalapenos *before* canning to nail your ideal heat level.
- For an extra layer of flavor, a tiny pinch of smoked paprika can add a subtle smoky note.
What’s the secret to perfect Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce?
The real secret to a fantastic sweet heat bourbon BBQ sauce is the balance. It’s about letting the fresh fruit shine while ensuring the bourbon and jalapenos complement, not overpower. The simmering process is key for this harmony. For more on flavor balancing in cooking, check out this guide on balancing flavors.
Can I make Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! This homemade strawberry jalapeno bourbon sauce is perfect for making ahead. Once canned, it will last for months. If you’re not canning, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can find more tips on preserving your culinary creations here.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce?
A couple of common pitfalls include not simmering long enough, which results in a thin sauce, or not wiping jar rims properly, which can prevent a good seal. Also, be sure to adjust jalapenos to your taste *before* the canning process!
Best Ways to Serve Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce
This vibrant sauce is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with so many dishes! It’s fantastic brushed onto grilled chicken or pork chops during the last few minutes of cooking. For a truly show-stopping experience, try slathering it on ribs – it’s hands down the best bourbon BBQ sauce for ribs I’ve ever made, creating a sticky, caramelized glaze. It also makes a killer dipping sauce for appetizers or a flavorful drizzle over pulled pork sandwiches. Don’t be afraid to experiment; this sauce adds a unique sweet and spicy flair to almost anything! For more ideas on delicious pairings, explore our sloppy joe bowls.
Nutrition Facts for Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce
This delicious sauce offers a delightful flavor profile with reasonable nutritional values per serving. Here’s a breakdown:
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 50
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially the amount of honey and the type of bourbon.
How to Store and Reheat Homemade Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon Sauce
Once your delicious Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce has cooled completely, it’s time to get it stored properly. If you canned it, the sealed jars are good for up to a year in a cool, dark pantry. If you didn’t can it, or after opening, transfer any leftover homemade strawberry jalapeno bourbon sauce into airtight containers. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions of the sauce for up to 3 months. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired temperature. Avoid boiling it vigorously after it’s been cooked and processed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce
What is strawberry jalapeno bourbon BBQ sauce?
It’s a unique condiment that blends the sweetness of strawberries with the heat of jalapenos and the rich, warm notes of bourbon. This homemade sauce offers a complex flavor profile, perfect for adding a gourmet touch to grilled meats and more. It’s a departure from traditional BBQ sauces, bringing a delightful fruity kick.
Why use strawberry jalapeno bourbon BBQ sauce?
You’ll want to use this sauce because it offers an incredible balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors that most other sauces can’t match. It’s a fantastic way to impress your guests with a gourmet, homemade touch. Plus, making your own lets you control the spice level and ensures you’re using fresh, quality ingredients for a truly delicious experience.
Can I make this sauce without bourbon?
Yes, you absolutely can! If you prefer to omit the bourbon or don’t have any on hand, you can substitute it with an equal amount of strongly brewed black tea or even a splash of apple cider vinegar for extra tang. While the bourbon adds a distinct depth and warmth, the sauce will still be delicious without it.
How do I adjust the spice level of this sauce?
The heat really comes from the jalapenos. To make it milder, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos before pureeing them. For even more heat, leave some seeds in or add a small pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce during the simmering process. Always taste and adjust before canning!
Variations of Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the basic Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce, don’t be afraid to get creative! This recipe is the perfect base for experimentation. Here are a few ideas to get you started on your flavor journey:
- Smoky Kick: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke to the pot during simmering for a delightful smoky undertone. This transforms it into a truly unique BBQ sauce.
- Bourbon Berry Twist: Swap out half of the strawberries for raspberries or blackberries. This variation offers a different fruity complexity, making it a wonderful Bourbon infused BBQ sauce with fruit.
- Extra Spicy Fruit BBQ: For those who love heat, increase the jalapeno count or add a habanero pepper to the puree. This makes for an even more exciting Spicy fruit BBQ sauce recipe that’s sure to impress.
- Gluten-Free Option: Ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free, as this is the only common ingredient that typically contains gluten. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce: Amazing Flavor
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A sweet and spicy strawberry jalapeno bourbon BBQ sauce perfect for grilling meats. This homemade sauce offers a unique flavor with a kick.
Ingredients
- 6 cups Strawberries, Pureed
- 1 red Bell Pepper
- 1 Onion
- 4 Jalapeno Peppers (adjust for spice level)
- 3/4 Cup Apple Cider Vinegar
- 2 tsp Dry Mustard
- 1 Tbsp Canning Salt
- 2 Tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 Tbsp Lemon Juice
- 1/8 cup Bourbon
- 2 tsp Minced Garlic
- 1/2 Cup Honey
Instructions
- Rinse the strawberries.
- Puree the strawberries, onion, and peppers using a food processor.
- Combine all ingredients in a large pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for at least 30 minutes.
- Ladle the sauce into canning jars.
- Wipe the jar rims clean, remove any air bubbles, and secure the lids.
- Process the jars in a water bath canner for 15 minutes at a rolling boil.
- Remove the jars and let them sit undisturbed for 24 hours.
Notes
This strawberry jalapeno bourbon BBQ sauce can be made spicier or milder by adjusting the number of jalapeno peppers. Experiment with other fruit and jalapeno combinations for different flavors.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Sauces and Condiments
- Method: Canning
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Strawberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce, Spicy Strawberry Bourbon BBQ Sauce, Sweet and spicy strawberry jalapeno sauce, Bourbon BBQ sauce with strawberry and jalapeno, Homemade strawberry jalapeno bourbon sauce, Strawberry jalapeno bourbon glaze