Barbecue sauce gets a fruity twist with our irresistible plum barbecue sauce recipe. Combining the natural sweetness of ripe plums with smoky, tangy flavors, this sauce is a game-changer for grilling season. It’s the perfect blend of sweet and savory, adding a unique depth to everything from ribs to grilled veggies.
Plum Barbecue Sauce Recipe
This homemade plum barbecue sauce combines the perfect balance of sweetness, tanginess, and smokiness to elevate your dishes. Follow these simple steps to make your kitchen smell like a summer barbecue!
Ingredients
Here’s what we’ll need to create this rich plum barbecue sauce:
- 1 ½ pounds ripe fresh plums, pitted and roughly chopped
- 1 cup ketchup
- ⅓ cup packed brown sugar (light or dark, depending on your taste preference)
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Plums
Start by washing the fresh plums. Slice them in half, discard the pits, and roughly chop them into smaller pieces. These chunks will break down as we cook.
2. Cook the Ingredients Together
In a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat, combine the plums, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir well to ensure everything is mixed thoroughly.
3. Simmer and Soften
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and allow it to cook for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally. As the plums soften, their juices will blend beautifully with the other ingredients, forming the base of the sauce.
4. Blend for a Smooth Texture
After the plums have completely softened and the mixture thickens slightly, remove the saucepan from heat. Let it cool for about 5 minutes. Transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor and blend until the sauce becomes silky smooth. You can also use an immersion blender directly in the pot for easier cleanup.
5. Taste and Adjust Seasoning
Return the blended sauce to the saucepan. Taste the sauce and adjust with additional salt, black pepper, or a hint more brown sugar if needed. If you prefer a thinner consistency, stir in a splash of water and warm it gently.
6. Store and Serve
Let the sauce cool completely before storing. Pour it into an airtight jar or container and refrigerate it. Stored properly, this plum barbecue sauce will last up to 1 week. Warm it before serving for best results.
Useful Tips
- If you buy firm plums, let them ripen for a few days at room temperature for maximum sweetness.
- For a spicier twist, add an extra teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- This sauce pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, ribs, roasted vegetables, and even as a glaze for baked salmon.
Ingredients
Below are the key ingredients needed for our flavorful Plum Barbecue Sauce. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in balancing the sweetness, tanginess, and smokiness of the sauce. Make sure to gather these fresh and high-quality items for the best results.
Ingredient List:
- 1 lb fresh ripe plums (pitted and chopped; approximately 4-5 medium-sized plums)
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for added heat)
Notes on Ingredients:
- Plums: Ensure the plums are ripe for maximum sweetness and flavor. If they’re slightly firm, allow them to ripen at room temperature for 1-2 days.
- Brown Sugar: For that deep molasses-like sweetness balancing the tanginess.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a tangy kick that highlights the sweetness of the plums.
- Smoked Paprika: Provides that essential smoky undertone, complementing barbecue flavors.
- Cayenne Pepper: Optional but perfect if you prefer a mildly spicy twist to your sauce.
Tools And Equipment
For making our Plum Barbecue Sauce, having the right tools and equipment ensures a smooth and efficient cooking process. Each item plays a specific role, so we’ve outlined what you’ll need below:
Essential Tools:
- Cutting Board: For chopping the fresh ripe plums into smaller pieces. Choose a sturdy board to handle juicier fruits without slipping.
- Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife is crucial for precise and safe cutting—especially when working with delicate plums.
- Medium Saucepan: Use a medium-sized saucepan to simmer the ingredients. Non-stick or stainless steel pans work best to prevent sticking or burning.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Perfect for stirring the plum mixture and ensuring even cooking without damaging your cookware.
- Blender or Immersion Blender: To achieve that silky-smooth sauce texture, a high-powered blender or an immersion blender is essential.
- Fine Mesh Strainer (optional): If you prefer a super-smooth sauce, a strainer will help remove any leftover skin or pulp.
Measuring Tools:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Measuring Cups | For accurate measurements of liquids like ketchup and apple cider vinegar. |
| Measuring Spoons | To measure spices, sugar, and seasoning effectively. |
Additional Tools:
- Mixing Bowl (if prepping ahead): For holding pre-chopped plums or combining dry spices.
- Storage Jars or Containers: Airtight jars are key for storing the prepared barbecue sauce properly, maintaining its freshness for up to a week.
Directions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to make a rich, flavorful plum barbecue sauce. Each stage is simple, ensuring a hassle-free cooking experience with delicious results.
Prep The Ingredients
- Wash 1 lb of ripe plums thoroughly under cool running water to remove any dirt or residue.
- Pit the plums by slicing them in half and removing the pits. Chop the plums into small chunks for easier cooking.
- Measure out the remaining ingredients:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Optional: 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper for a touch of heat.
Cook The Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped plums, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. If adding cayenne pepper, include it now.
- Turn the heat to medium-low and stir the mixture well using a wooden spoon or silicone spatula.
- Let the sauce simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.
- The plums will soften and merge with the liquid, creating a thick, aromatic base.
- Keep cooking until the mixture reaches a jam-like consistency, and the plums are fully broken down.
Blend And Finish
- Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly for 5 minutes to avoid heat damage to your blender.
- Use an immersion blender directly in the pan or transfer the sauce to a stand blender. Blend the mixture until it’s smooth and velvety.
- Optional step: If you prefer an ultra-smooth sauce, pass it through a fine mesh strainer to remove any pulp or leftover skin.
- Pour the sauce back into the pan and adjust the seasoning to taste. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
- Let the sauce cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight storage jar. Store in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving our Plum Barbecue Sauce, the options are as versatile as its bold, tangy, and sweet flavor. Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy this rich, flavorful sauce:
1. Classic Grilled Meats
Brush the sauce generously over grilled chicken, pork ribs, or juicy burgers during the last few minutes of cooking. The heat caramelizes the sauce, creating a sticky glaze that pairs beautifully with smoky, charred meat.
2. Roasted or Grilled Vegetables
Drizzle the plum barbecue sauce over roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or sweet potatoes for a burst of sweet-and-savory goodness. It also makes a perfect dipping sauce for grilled asparagus or crispy cauliflower.
3. Seafood Enhancer
Use the sauce as a glaze for baked or grilled salmon, shrimp, or even scallops. Its fruity base complements the lightness of seafood while adding a unique depth of flavor.
4. Sandwiches & Wraps
Spread a layer of this sauce onto BBQ chicken sandwiches or as a lively condiment for pulled pork wraps. It adds moisture, richness, and a pop of spicy-sweet flavor.
5. Dipping Sauce
Serve it on the side as a dipping sauce with crispy chicken tenders, onion rings, or fries. It’s also ideal for dunking grilled skewers such as chicken, beef, or veggie kabobs.
6. Pizza Topping
Replace regular marinara with our plum barbecue sauce as a base for pizzas. Top with shredded chicken, mozzarella, red onions, and cilantro for a delicious barbecue chicken pizza.
7. Salad Dressing or Glaze
Blend with olive oil and vinegar to create a unique BBQ-inspired salad dressing. Alternatively, use it to glaze roasted nuts or drizzle over a Mexican-style chopped salad.
Suggestion Table for Quick Reference
| Serving Style | Examples |
|---|---|
| Grilled Meats | Chicken, ribs, burgers |
| Vegetables | Zucchini, carrots, roasted potatoes |
| Seafood | Salmon, shrimp, scallops |
| Sandwiches & Wraps | Pulled pork, BBQ chicken sandwiches |
| Dipping Sauce | Chicken tenders, fries, onion rings |
| Pizza Topping | BBQ chicken pizza |
| Dressings & Glazes | BBQ salad dressings, roasted nuts, or drizzled on fresh salads |
Make-Ahead And Storage Tips
Planning ahead with this plum barbecue sauce is a breeze, making meal preparations smoother and more flavorful. Here are our detailed tips to ensure your sauce stays fresh and flavorful after it’s made:
Prepare in Advance
- The plum barbecue sauce is perfect for making ahead of time as the flavors deepen and meld beautifully after resting in the refrigerator.
- Once prepared, let the sauce cool completely at room temperature before transferring it to storage containers.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage:
- Pour the cooled sauce into an airtight glass jar or BPA-free plastic container to maintain freshness.
- Store it in the refrigerator, where it will remain good for up to 7 days.
- Freezer Storage:
- For extended storage, transfer the sauce to freezer-friendly containers or resealable freezer bags, leaving about an inch of headspace to allow for expansion as it freezes.
- Lay the bags flat for space-saving storage and better thawing.
- The sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Thawing and Reheating
- When ready to use frozen sauce, simply transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator to thaw overnight.
- Reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating and restore its smooth texture.
Pro Tips for Storing
- Label and Date: Always label your containers with the preparation date to track its freshness easily.
- Smaller Portions: Consider dividing the sauce into smaller portions before freezing. This way, you can thaw only the amount you need.
- Avoid Metal Containers: Store the sauce in non-metallic containers to prevent any unwanted flavor alterations caused by acidity reacting with metal.
| Storage Method | Container Type | Shelf Life |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Airtight jar/plastic container | Up to 7 days |
| Freezer | Freezer-safe container/bag | Up to 3 months |
Conclusion
Plum barbecue sauce brings a delightful twist to any meal with its perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors. It’s a versatile addition that elevates everything from grilled meats to roasted vegetables and seafood.
Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking to add a unique touch to weeknight dinners, this sauce is sure to impress. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a recipe worth keeping in your kitchen repertoire.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this plum barbecue sauce unique?
This plum barbecue sauce stands out because it combines the natural sweetness of ripe plums with tangy and smoky elements. The fruity twist adds depth to traditional barbecue flavors and pairs well with a variety of dishes like grilled meats, roasted veggies, and seafood.
What ingredients do I need to make the sauce?
Key ingredients for the sauce include fresh ripe plums, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper if you prefer some heat.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be made in advance. It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
How do I store leftover plum barbecue sauce?
Leftover sauce should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 7 days. For extended storage, freeze it in freezer-safe jars or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat as needed.
How do I know if my plums are ripe?
Ripe plums are slightly soft to the touch and have a vibrant color. They should give off a sweet, pleasant aroma. If your plums are hard, leave them at room temperature for a few days to ripen.
Can I adjust the spice level of the sauce?
Absolutely! To increase the spice, add cayenne pepper or chili flakes. To reduce it, simply skip the cayenne or cut back on smoked paprika. You can always adjust seasonings to suit your taste.
What dishes pair well with plum barbecue sauce?
This sauce pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, ribs, roasted vegetables, baked salmon, sandwiches, or wraps. It also works great as a dipping sauce for fries or chicken tenders and as a glaze for pizza or salad dressings.
Do I need any special equipment to make this sauce?
Essential tools include a cutting board, chef’s knife, saucepan, wooden spoon, and a blender or immersion blender for a smooth texture. Optional tools like a fine mesh strainer can be used for an ultra-smooth sauce.
Can the sauce be strained for a smoother texture?
Yes, after blending, you can strain the sauce using a fine mesh strainer to remove any pulp and create a silky-smooth texture. This step is optional but enhances the sauce’s consistency.
How long does it take to make this sauce?
The entire process, from prepping the ingredients to cooking and blending the sauce, typically takes about 30-40 minutes, making it a quick and easy recipe for flavorful barbecue sauce.