Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by gathering all the ingredients for Cheerwine Barbecue Sauce. It’s key to have everything prepped and ready so that the cooking process flows smoothly. In a medium saucepan, combine the Cheerwine, soy sauce, honey, Karo syrup, butter, and brown sugar. Stir these together over medium heat, ensuring everything is well mixed.
- As the mixture heats, keep an eye on it and stir frequently. This step is crucial because you want all the sugars to dissolve and blend harmoniously. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, hinting at the delightful flavor that’s coming together.
- After about 10 minutes of stirring, it’s time to introduce the remaining ingredients. Add the minced garlic, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, yellow mustard, salt, and black pepper. Each of these components will add an extra layer of flavor that makes this sauce unique.
- Continue to cook the sauce for another 10 to 15 minutes. You’ll notice it starting to thicken; you’re looking for a consistency that coats the back of a spoon. This is a good indication that your sauce is ready.
- Once thickened, remove the saucepan from heat. It’s essential to let it cool slightly before using. This cooling process allows the flavors to meld and settle, providing a richer taste.
- Reserve about a third of the sauce in a bowl so you can use it at the table. It’s a great addition to grilled meats or roasted veggies, allowing guests to use as much or as little as they desire.
- Now, take the rest of the sauce and use it to baste your grilled items. This is where the magic happens! Brush the sauce onto your meats or veggies as they cook, letting it caramelize and create a beautiful glaze.
- For extra flavor, consider charring some of the remaining sauce on the grill—it adds an incredible depth and smoky flavor that enhances the dish even more.
- Finally, enjoy your delicious Cheerwine Barbecue Sauce however you like! Whether it’s on grilled chicken, ribs, or even veggies, you’ll find it adds a burst of flavor that’s hard to resist.
Notes
Store any leftover sauce in a sealed container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to a week, making it easy to add flavor to future meals.
You can freeze the sauce in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. Just thaw and reheat when you're ready to use it again.
This sauce goes beautifully with grilled chicken, ribs, or roasted vegetables. Serve it at cookouts, parties, or whenever you want a burst of flavor.
If you love it as much as I do, consider doubling the recipe. That way, you'll have plenty to share or save for later!
Feel free to adjust the heat by adding more or less red pepper flakes according to your preference. You can also experiment with different types of mustard for varied flavors.