Name: Strawberry Rhubarb Chipotle BBQ Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tbsp butter; 6 oz tomato paste; 1/2 cup white vinegar; 1/2 cup cider vinegar; 3/4 cup water; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 2 tbsp golden monkfruit sweetener; 1 tsp chipotle chili powder; 1 cup sugar free strawberry rhubarb sauce

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 15 reviews

If you’re craving a barbecue sauce with a vibrant twist, this Strawberry Rhubarb Chipotle BBQ Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine the tangy brightness of rhubarb mingling with the sweet, juicy notes of strawberries, all kissed by a smoky chipotle punch that wakes up your taste buds. This sauce is incredibly versatile, balancing sweet and heat in a way that effortlessly elevates grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even as a dip. Once you make it, you’ll find it becoming a go-to favorite for any gathering or weeknight dinner.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows a food setup on a white marbled surface. In the center, there is a yellow container filled with thick red sauce. To the left of the container, there are two types of bread rolls stacked in small piles, one topped with sesame seeds and the other with black seeds. In front of the bread rolls, there is a small stack of yellow and white cheese slices. Behind the container, there is a white bowl filled with green roasted peppers. To the right of the container, a white plate holds sliced white onion rings and yellow pickle slices, with a halved white onion placed nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Strawberry Rhubarb Chipotle BBQ Sauce Recipe lies in its beautifully simple and thoughtful list of ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, contributing layers of flavor, body, and just the right hint of sweetness and spice that makes the sauce unforgettable.

2 tablespoon butter: Adds richness and smooths out the tangy edges for a silky finish.
6 oz tomato paste: Provides a robust, savory base giving the sauce its classic BBQ depth.
½ cup white vinegar: Brings essential acidity, balancing sweetness and keeping the sauce lively.
½ cup cider vinegar: Introduces a subtle fruity tartness that complements the strawberry rhubarb flavors.
¾ cup water: Thins the mixture just enough for perfect spreading and glazing.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Offers a punch of garlicky warmth without overpowering the sauce.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a gentle savory background note that rounds out the flavor profile.
2 tablespoon golden monkfruit: Natural sweetness with fewer calories, enhancing the fruitiness without sugar overload.
1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder: Delivers smoky, spicy heat that wakes up every bite.
1 cup sugar free strawberry rhubarb sauce: The star ingredient that infuses fruit-forward tang and sweetness, setting this BBQ sauce apart.

How to Make Strawberry Rhubarb Chipotle BBQ Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Combine and Heat Ingredients

Start by whisking together all your ingredients in a large saucepan over medium heat. The mixture will begin to thicken as the tomato paste combines with the liquids, and you’ll notice the aromas of fruit and spice melding together beautifully.

Step 2: Bring to a Slow Boil

Once everything is well incorporated, bring your sauce to a gentle boil. This step is important because it allows the flavors to fully marry and the sauce to start reducing, concentrating that wonderful blend of sweet, tangy, and smoky.

Step 3: Simmer and Stir

Reduce the heat and let your sauce simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure an even texture. The sauce will thicken as it cooks, developing a rich and luscious consistency perfect for clinging to your favorite dishes.

Step 4: Cool and Store

After simmering, remove the saucepan from heat and allow the sauce to cool. Transfer it into an airtight container and refrigerate it until you’re ready to use it. The flavors only get better as it rests, making this sauce a true labor of love worth the wait.

How to Serve Strawberry Rhubarb Chipotle BBQ Sauce Recipe

A sandwich with three layers is shown on a white speckled plate. The bottom layer is a light brown toasted bun with a thick slice of bright green pickle and some small sliced green beans on top. The middle layer is a dark brown grilled patty with a melted yellow slice of cheese partially oozing down. The top layer is a soft, golden brown bun sprinkled with black seeds. On the left side of the plate, there are two charred green chili peppers. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with a blue and white checkered cloth in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro, thinly sliced green onions, or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds works wonders. These fresh touches not only add color and crunch but also lift the flavor profile, perfectly complementing the boldness of the sauce.

Side Dishes

Think classic pairings like grilled corn on the cob, creamy coleslaw, baked sweet potatoes, or even roasted Brussels sprouts. The sweet and smoky notes in the Strawberry Rhubarb Chipotle BBQ Sauce Recipe elevate these sides, creating a well-rounded meal that’s bursting with flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t limit yourself to a simple dip or glaze! Use this sauce as a marinade for chicken wings before baking, swirl it into pulled pork sandwiches, or drizzle over crispy tofu for a meat-free delight. Its versatility is truly impressive and a big reason this recipe is so beloved.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your leftover Strawberry Rhubarb Chipotle BBQ Sauce Recipe should be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to two weeks, making it super handy for quick weeknight meals or last-minute BBQs.

Freezing

This sauce freezes beautifully. Simply pour into freezer-safe jars or bags, leaving some room for expansion, and freeze for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and give it a quick stir before serving.

Reheating

Reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently. Avoid boiling it too vigorously again, as that could change the texture. Warming it just right helps preserve the vibrant flavors and silky smooth consistency.

FAQs

Can I use fresh strawberries and rhubarb instead of the sauce?

Absolutely! If you have fresh strawberries and rhubarb on hand, you can cook them down with a bit of sweetener and vinegar to create your own base sauce. Just ensure it’s fully reduced before adding to the other ingredients to maintain the right balance and thickness.

Is this sauce spicy?

The chipotle chili powder adds a moderate smoky heat to the sauce, but it’s perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the strawberry rhubarb. If you prefer less heat, simply reduce the chili powder to taste.

What meats pair best with this BBQ sauce?

This sauce is fantastic on chicken, pork ribs, and grilled sausages. It also pairs wonderfully with beef burgers or as a dip for crispy chicken tenders. The bright fruitiness complements rich meats beautifully without overpowering them.

Can I make this sauce vegan?

Yes, you can easily veganize it by substituting the butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan margarine. The sauce will still maintain its rich mouthfeel and complex flavor profile.

How sweet is this sauce given it’s sugar-free?

Thanks to the golden monkfruit sweetener and the natural sugars in the strawberry rhubarb sauce, it has a lovely level of sweetness that satisfies without being cloying. It’s a great option for those watching their sugar intake but still craving delicious BBQ flavors.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend the Strawberry Rhubarb Chipotle BBQ Sauce Recipe enough if you’re looking to brighten up your BBQ game with something unexpected and truly irresistible. Its unique blend of smoky heat and fruit-forward tang is a guaranteed conversation starter at any meal. Give it a shot, and prepare to have a new favorite for all your grilling and dipping adventures!