This Blueberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce is a bold, sweet, and spicy sauce perfect for grilling, dipping, or marinating. The combination of fresh blueberries, smoky bourbon, and spicy jalapenos creates a deep, complex flavor that elevates any dish. Designed for canning, this sauce ensures you can enjoy its deliciousness all year long.
Personal Story & Background
I’ve always loved experimenting with homemade BBQ sauces, and one summer, after picking an abundance of blueberries, I decided to create a sauce that balanced sweetness, spice, and depth. The addition of bourbon gives it a smoky richness, while the jalapenos bring just the right amount of heat. This sauce quickly became a favorite for family cookouts, and I knew I had to start canning it to enjoy it year-round.
If you’ve never made your own BBQ sauce, this recipe is a great place to start. It’s easy to customize, has a beautiful deep color, and works well with everything from grilled chicken to smoked ribs.
Ingredient Notes
- Fresh Blueberries – Provides natural sweetness and a rich color.
- Jalapenos – Adds spice; adjust the amount for preferred heat level.
- Bourbon – Enhances depth with smoky caramel notes.
- Tomato Paste – Helps thicken the sauce and provides a classic BBQ base.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Balances sweetness and preserves the sauce.
- Brown Sugar – Adds a molasses-like sweetness and depth.
- Honey – Enhances the natural sweetness of the blueberries.
- Garlic & Onion – Build savory depth.
- Smoked Paprika & Mustard Powder – Adds smokiness and tang.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Enhances all flavors.
Possible Substitutions:
- Replace bourbon with apple juice for an alcohol-free version.
- Swap brown sugar for maple syrup for a different depth of sweetness.
- Use habaneros instead of jalapenos for extra heat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Ingredients
Chop the jalapenos (remove seeds for less heat) and dice the onion and garlic.
2. Cook the Base
In a large saucepan, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the onions, jalapenos, and garlic, cooking until softened.
3. Add Remaining Ingredients
Stir in the blueberries, bourbon, tomato paste, vinegar, brown sugar, honey, and spices. Bring to a gentle boil.
4. Simmer and Blend
Reduce heat and let the mixture simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once thickened, blend with an immersion blender or transfer to a blender for a smooth consistency.
5. Adjust Seasoning
Taste and adjust salt, sweetness, or heat as needed.
6. Prepare for Canning
Sterilize your canning jars and lids by boiling them for 10 minutes. Fill jars with the hot sauce, leaving ½ inch of headspace.
7. Process in Water Bath
Place filled jars in a boiling water canner and process for 15 minutes. Remove and let cool completely before storing.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
- Use Ripe Blueberries – They provide the best sweetness and consistency.
- Let the Sauce Sit Overnight – The flavors deepen after resting.
- Adjust Heat to Taste – Start with fewer jalapenos and add more if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Brush on grilled meats like chicken, ribs, or pork chops.
- Use as a dipping sauce for fries or roasted veggies.
- Drizzle over burgers or sandwiches for extra flavor.
- Mix into baked beans for a smoky, sweet twist.
Storage and Canning Tips
- Refrigerator: Store opened jars in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.
- Canned: Properly processed jars last up to 12 months in a cool, dark place.
- Freezer: Freeze in airtight containers for up to 6 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes! Just thaw them before cooking and adjust sweetness if needed.
2. How do I make the sauce thicker?
Let it simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry if needed.
3. Can I use a different vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar works best, but white vinegar or balsamic can be used for variation.
Conclusion
This Blueberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce is a must-try for anyone who loves bold flavors. Whether you’re grilling, dipping, or marinating, this sauce brings a sweet and spicy kick to any dish. Give it a try and let me know how you enjoy it!
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Blueberry Jalapeno Bourbon BBQ Sauce for Canning
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Approximately 4 cups (12 servings, ¼ cup each) 1x
- Category: Condiments
- Method: Canning
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Blueberry Jalapeño Bourbon BBQ Sauce combines the sweetness of ripe blueberries, the heat of jalapeños, and the depth of smoky bourbon to create a versatile condiment perfect for grilling, dipping, or marinating. Designed for canning, this sauce allows you to savor its rich flavors throughout the year.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
- 1–2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped (adjust based on desired heat level)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- 6 ounces tomato paste
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: If using fresh blueberries, rinse and drain them. For frozen blueberries, thaw and drain any excess liquid. Seed and finely chop the jalapeños, adjusting the quantity based on your heat preference. Finely dice the onion and mince the garlic.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and chopped jalapeños; cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Deglaze with Bourbon: Carefully pour in the bourbon, stirring to deglaze the pan. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes to let the alcohol evaporate and the flavors meld.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the blueberries, tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, honey, smoked paprika, mustard powder, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Simmer the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the blueberries have broken down.
- Blend for Smoothness: Using an immersion blender, puree the sauce until smooth. Alternatively, let the sauce cool slightly and blend in batches using a countertop blender.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, sugar, or vinegar to balance flavors.
- Prepare for Canning: Sterilize canning jars and lids by boiling them in water for 10 minutes. Keep them warm until ready to use.
- Fill Jars: Carefully ladle the hot sauce into the prepared jars, leaving about ½ inch of headspace at the top. Wipe the rims clean, place the lids on, and screw on the bands until fingertip-tight.
- Process in Water Bath: Place the filled jars into a boiling water canner, ensuring they are fully submerged. Process for 15 minutes (adjusting for altitude as necessary).
- Cool and Store: Remove the jars from the canner and let them cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours. Check seals before storing.
Notes
- Heat Level: Adjust the number of jalapeños based on your spice preference. Removing the seeds and membranes reduces heat.
- Consistency: For a thicker sauce, extend the simmering time or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) during the simmering process.
- Flavor Development: Allowing the sauce to sit for 24 hours before use enhances flavor integration.
Nutrition
- Calories: 103
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 0.1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0.2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg