Barbecue sauce is the life of all grilled food parties and what could be better than adding a touch of autumn to it with apples and cinnamon? Apples and cinnamon are the perfect combination for the chilly evenings and make the grilled food all the better. Apples provide a slight tartness that balances out the sweetness of the BBQ sauce while cinnamon adds aromatic spice flavor.
Ingredients
For the base of the sauce:
- 2 cups of ketchup
- 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar
- 1/3 cup of molasses
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the apples:
- 2 medium apples, chopped into small pieces
- 1 tablespoon of butter or margarine
- 1 tablespoon of honey
- 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon
Instructions
1. In a medium saucepan, mix together ketchup, apple cider vinegar, molasses, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Over low heat, cook the mixture for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The mixture will thicken and darken in color.
2. While the base sauce is cooking, melt one tablespoon of butter or margarine in a separate pan.
3. Add in the chopped apples, honey, and cinnamon. Stir the mixture and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the apples are tender.
4. Add the cooked apples to the BBQ sauce mixture and stir to combine.
5. Cook for another 5-7 minutes and remove from heat.
6. Let the sauce cool and then serve alongside your grilled favorites.
Final Thoughts
Adding apples and cinnamon to a classic BBQ sauce recipe is like adding a touch of autumn to your grilled food parties. This sweet and savory sauce pairs well with pork chops or chicken, and adds a unique and flavorful twist to your meal. It's easy to make and can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Try out this recipe the next time you're in the mood for a delicious, fall-inspired BBQ sauce.
Barbecue sauce is an excellent way to add flavor and juiciness to grilled meat. Apples and cinnamon barbecue sauce is a unique and flavorful twist on traditional barbecue sauce. This homemade sauce is simple to make, and it can elevate your grilling game.
Tip 1: The Apple
The apple is the star of the show in this sauce, so choosing the right apple is crucial. Fuji or Gala apples are excellent choices because they are naturally sweet and have a firm texture that holds up well when cooked.
Quick Hack:
If you don't have time to cook fresh apples, using unsweetened apple sauce as a replacement is a quick and easy alternative.
Tip 2: Spices
Cinnamon is the signature spice in this barbecue sauce that complements the sweetness of the apple perfectly. Other spices can also add depth and complexity of flavor to the sauce. Some delicious options to try include smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder.
Quick Hack:
Don’t be afraid to experiment with the amount and type of spices used in this sauce. Play around until you find your perfect blend.
Tip 3: The Sweetener
Adding a sweetener is essential when making apples and cinnamon barbecue sauce to balance the natural tartness of the apples. Brown sugar, honey, and maple syrup are common sweeteners used in barbecue sauce recipes. They not only sweeten the sauce but also add a depth of flavor.
Quick Hack:
If you want to make the sauce healthier, use alternative natural sweeteners like coconut sugar, agave nectar, or stevia.
Tip 4: Cooking Method
The cooking method plays a significant role in the final taste and texture of the sauce. Simmering the sauce on low heat allows the flavors of the ingredients to blend and infuse.
Quick Hack:
Whisking the ingredients together while simmering is an effective way to ensure that the sauce is smooth and lump-free.
Tip 5: The Consistency
The consistency of the barbecue sauce is essential to its performance on grilled meat. A sauce that is too thick can overpower the meat, and a sauce that is too thin can be messy and hard to apply. The perfect consistency for barbecue sauce is somewhat thick but still pourable.
Quick Hack:
To thicken the sauce, you can add a little cornstarch and simmer over low heat until it thickens. If the sauce is too thick, thin it out by adding small amounts of water or stock.
Tip 6: Combining with Meat
Now that you have made the perfect apples and cinnamon barbecue sauce, it’s time to combine it with meat. The best way to use this sauce is to glaze the meat during the last few minutes of cooking.
Quick Hack:
For best results, brush the barbecue sauce on both sides of the meat and let it cook for a few minutes on each side. This method will give you the perfect caramelized and juicy meat with a tangy, sweet, and spicy flavor.
Conclusion
In conclusion, apples and cinnamon barbecue sauce is an exciting, sweet and savory twist on traditional barbecue sauce. With these tips, you can confidently make your homemade barbecue sauce that is perfect for grilling meat. Remember to experiment with different spices, sweeteners, and cooking methods for your personalized take on this delicious sauce.
