Everything’s better with bourbon, and this bourbon bbq sauce recipe is a fine example of that! Bourbon BBQ sauce is the perfect addition to any meal. It’s slightly sweet, slightly smoky, and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s easy to make at home, only taking about 30 minutes to prepare.
Bourbon barbeque sauce is a staple in Southern cuisine, and for good reason! Its tangy sweetness and smoky hickory flavor make it the perfect complement to meats like pork, beef, chicken wings, and even fish. While bourbon is the traditional alcohol used in this sauce, you can also try experimenting with different spirits like whiskey or rum to give the sauce a unique twist.
Whether you’re looking to marinate your meat before grilling, glaze it during cooking, or simply serve it as a condiment on the side, bourbon BBQ sauce is sure to become your new favorite BBQ sauce. So fire up the grill, grab your favorite meats, and get ready to indulge in the delicious flavors of this mouth-watering sauce.
Is There Alcohol in Bourbon BBQ Sauce?
When making the bourbon BBQ sauce, the alcohol in the bourbon will evaporate as the alcohol cooks. Alcohol boils at a lower temperature than water, so as the sauce simmers and thickens, the alcohol evaporation process begins.
However, not all of the alcohol will evaporate; some will remain in the sauce. The amount of alcohol that remains in the sauce will depend on a few factors such as the amount of bourbon used and the length of the cooking time.
While the alcohol may not be completely eliminated, the alcohol content remaining in the sauce will likely be significantly reduced. Therefore, it’s safe to assume that the amount of alcohol in the final product will be minimal, while the bourbon flavor remains. Bourbon BBQ sauce is generally considered safe for consumption by people of all ages.
What To Serve With Bourbon BBQ Sauce Recipe
This Homemade BBQ sauce is a delicious addition to many different types of meat. Its sweet and tangy flavor pairs particularly well with rich, smoky meats like pork and beef. Here are some of the best types of meat to serve with bourbon BBQ sauce.
Pork
Pulled pork is a classic dish that goes perfectly with bourbon BBQ sauce. The rich, smoky flavor of pork cooking on a charcoal grill is enhanced by the sweetness of the sauce. Ribs are another great option, whether they’re slow-cooked or grilled to perfection.
Beef
Beef brisket is another classic pairing with bourbon BBQ sauce. The tender, smoky meat is the perfect canvas for the rich, tangy sauce. Steak is another option, particularly if it’s grilled or pan-seared to medium-rare or medium doneness.
Chicken
Grilled chicken is a great option if you’re looking for a lighter meal that still packs a lot of flavors. Chicken thighs and drumsticks are particularly flavorful and go well with the sweet and tangy flavor of the sauce.
How To Make Bourbon BBQ Sauce
Gather Ingredients
Whisk Ingredients
Simmer
Reduce Heat
Let it Cool
Use or Store
Tips & Tricks For Making Homemade Barbecue Sauce
Bourbon barbecue sauce is a versatile and delicious condiment that can be used to enhance the flavor of a variety of dishes. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced chef, there are a few tips and tricks you can follow to make sure your bourbon BBQ sauce turns out perfectly every time.
Selecting the Right Bourbon
If you’re whipping up a batch of bourbon BBQ sauce, the bourbon whiskey you choose can make or break the dish’s overall taste. Opt for bourbon with a smooth and rich flavor, as this will add complexity to your sauce.
As the alcohol cooks off, the distinct taste of bourbon will remain, giving your sauce a unique and irresistible flavor. We suggest avoiding inexpensive bourbon, as the taste may not be up to par with the good stuff. Trust us, using quality bourbon will take your BBQ sauce game to the next level!
Adjust the Sweetness
The sweetness of bourbon BBQ sauce can be adjusted to suit your taste. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, you can increase the amount of brown sugar or add a little honey. If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of brown sugar or use a sugar substitute.
Crank Up The Heat
If you like your BBQ sauce with a little kick, you can add a touch of heat to the recipe. Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to give the sauce a little extra heat.
Let the sauce cool before storing – To ensure that your sauce stays fresh and doesn’t spoil, it’s important to let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will prevent condensation from forming inside the container, which can cause the sauce to spoil.
Experiment with Seasonings
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and seasonings when making this smoky bourbon BBQ sauce. You can add herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor, or try adding a little smoked paprika for a smoky taste. The possibilities are endless!
Related Recipes
- The 12 Different Types of Barbecue Sauce
- Japanese BBQ Sauce Recipe
- Kansas City BBQ Sauce Recipe
- Dr Pepper BBQ Sauce Recipe
- Mustard BBQ Sauce
- White BBQ Sauce Recipe
Bourbon BBQ Sauce Recipe
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Small bowl
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cup ketchup
- 1 cup bourbon
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp liquid smoke
- 1 tbsp dijon mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
Instructions
- In a medium-sized saucepan, combine all the ingredients.
- Whisk the ingredients together until they are well combined.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the sauce to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 20-30 minutes or until it thickens.
- Once the sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool.
- Once cooled, the bourbon BBQ sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.