If you're a fan of rich, smoky flavors with a hint of sweetness, this homemade barbecue sauce recipe is a must-try. Perfect for slathering on grilled chicken, pork, or ribs, this sauce is inspired by Cajun cooking and is sure to elevate your barbecue game. Let’s dive into the details of this flavorful recipe!

Ingredients

Seasoning Mix

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons Black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon White pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground cayenne pepper

Main Ingredients

  • 1/2 pound Bacon, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups Chopped onions
  • 2 cups Pork, beef, or chicken stock
  • 1 1/2 cups Bottled chili sauce
  • 1 cup Honey
  • 3/4 cup Dry roasted pecans, chopped
  • 5 tablespoons Orange juice (about half an orange)
  • Rind & pulp from 1/2 orange
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon juice (about a quarter lemon)
  • Rind & pulp from 1/4 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons Minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon Tabasco sauce
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Seasoning Mix

In a small bowl, combine the black pepper, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, white pepper, and cayenne pepper. Set the mix aside for later use.

2. Cook the Bacon and Onions

In a 2-quart saucepan, fry the minced bacon over high heat until crispy. Once the bacon is done, add the chopped onions to the pan. Cover and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are dark brown but not burned.

3. Add the Seasoning

Stir in the seasoning mix and cook for an additional minute to allow the flavors to meld.

4. Combine Main Ingredients

Add the stock, chili sauce, honey, chopped pecans, orange juice, lemon juice, orange and lemon rinds and pulp, minced garlic, and Tabasco sauce to the pan. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

5. Simmer the Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently. This allows the flavors to develop beautifully.

6. Remove Rinds and Finish Cooking

After 10 minutes, remove the orange and lemon rinds. Continue cooking and stirring for another 15 minutes to ensure all the flavors marry together. Finally, add the unsalted butter and stir until melted.

7. Blend the Sauce

Remove the saucepan from heat and let the sauce cool for about 30 minutes. Then, pour it into a food processor or blender. Process for 10 to 15 seconds until the pecans and bacon are finely chopped.

8. Serve and Enjoy

This barbecue sauce makes about 5 cups, perfect for your next grilling session. Use it generously on chicken, pork, or ribs for a deliciously smoky, sweet flavor.

Conclusion

This homemade barbecue sauce is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor that will impress your family and friends. The combination of spices, bacon, and citrus gives it a unique twist that sets it apart from store-bought versions. Enjoy your grilling and happy cooking!