Roasted Rhubarb Barbecue Sauce

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Homemade roasted rhubarb barbecue sauce in a jar
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Last updated on May 30, 2025

As the grilling season approaches or that crisp autumn air beckons, the urge to try new flavors and combinations in your cooking becomes irresistible. One recipe that can certainly elevate your grilling game is Roasted Rhubarb Barbecue Sauce. This sauce strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tangy, using rhubarb, a surprisingly versatile ingredient. If you’re looking to add a fresh twist to your barbecue, this sauce will not only impress your guests but also open up new flavor possibilities.

In this article, we will guide you through making your own Roasted Rhubarb Barbecue Sauce. Not only will you enjoy the satisfaction of creating a homemade condiment, but you’ll also discover the rich and layered flavors that roasted rhubarb can add to your favorite dishes.

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Rhubarb Barbecue Sauce

  • Fresh and Unique Flavor: Rhubarb has a distinct tanginess that pairs wonderfully with savory ingredients, creating a barbecue sauce that stands out from the crowd.
  • Versatile Uses: This sauce is not just for grilled meats! It can enhance a variety of dishes, from roasted vegetables to grilled cheese sandwiches.
  • Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this flavorful sauce in no time.
  • Healthy Alternative: Homemade sauces are often healthier than store-bought options, as you can control the sugar and sodium levels.
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Homemade roasted rhubarb barbecue sauce in a jar

Roasted Rhubarb Barbecue Sauce

  • Author: Sarah Mendez
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: About 2 cups 1x
  • Diet: Vegan
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Description

This Roasted Rhubarb Barbecue Sauce blends the tart brightness of rhubarb with sweet, smoky, and savory elements for a uniquely flavorful condiment. Perfect for grilling season, it adds a tangy twist to meats, veggies, and sandwiches.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups coarsely chopped rhubarb
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1 cup water (plus more as needed)
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
  • Dash of cayenne pepper
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the chopped rhubarb and garlic cloves on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes, until softened and slightly caramelized.
  2. Transfer the roasted rhubarb and garlic to a saucepan. Add water, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper.
  3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add more water if the sauce becomes too thick.
  4. Use an immersion blender or transfer to a blender to puree the sauce until smooth.
  5. Return to the pan and simmer for another 5–10 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  6. Let cool and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Notes

  • You can strain the sauce after blending for a smoother texture.
  • Add a tablespoon of smoked paprika for a smokier flavor profile.
  • This sauce pairs well with grilled chicken, pork, tofu, or roasted vegetables.
  • Make a double batch and freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Condiment
  • Method: Roasting, Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
  • Calories: 35
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 90mg
  • Fat: 0g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: rhubarb barbecue sauce, rhubarb BBQ, homemade BBQ sauce, vegan BBQ sauce, tangy BBQ condiment

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Ingredients You’ll Need for Roasted Rhubarb Barbecue Sauce

To make this delicious Roasted Rhubarb Barbecue Sauce, you’ll need the following ingredients. We’ll also look at some optional add-ons to give your sauce an even more personalized touch.

Essential Ingredients:

  • 4 cups coarsely chopped rhubarb: This is the star ingredient, providing that characteristic tartness.
  • 3 cloves garlic: Adds a rich flavor that complements the rhubarb beautifully.
  • 1 cup water (plus more, as needed): Helps to thin the sauce to your desired consistency.
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar: Introduces a sweet and tangy element.
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar: Provides sweetness that balances the tartness of the rhubarb.
  • 1/4 cup ketchup: This adds depth and a touch of umami.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the savory flavor of the sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder: Adds a warming spice that elevates the sauce.
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon: Brings in a hint of warmth.
  • Dash of cayenne pepper: For a subtle kick.
  • Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential for rounding out the flavors.

Optional Add-Ons:

  • Smoked Paprika: For a smoky flavor that can deepen the taste.
  • Honey or Maple Syrup: If you prefer a different type of sweetness.
  • Extra Spices: Feel free to experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary to add complexity.

ding" id="how-to-make-roasted-rhubarb-barbecue-sauce-a-step-by-step-guide">How to Make Roasted Rhubarb Barbecue Sauce: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s walk through the process of creating this mouthwatering sauce step by step. You’ll find that making Roasted Rhubarb Barbecue Sauce is not only easy but also a fun way to spend time in the kitchen.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Make sure your oven is fully heated before moving on to the next step, as this will help the rhubarb roast evenly.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

While the oven is preheating, take a baking sheet and line it with aluminum foil. This will make cleanup a breeze after you’re done cooking. Spray the foil generously with non-stick cooking spray to prevent the rhubarb and garlic from sticking.

ding" id="step-3-roast-the-rhubarb-and-garlic">Step 3: Roast the Rhubarb and Garlic

On the prepared baking sheet, place 4 cups of coarsely chopped rhubarb and 3 cloves of garlic. Spread them out evenly. Roast in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rhubarb is soft and begins to caramelize slightly. The garlic should also be soft and aromatic at this point.

Step 4: Puree the Mixture

After roasting, transfer the rhubarb and garlic mixture into a food processor or a blender. Add 1 cup of water to the blender. Blend it until smooth. This will create a deliciously rich base for your barbecue sauce.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients in a Saucepan

Pour the pureed mixture into a medium-sized saucepan. Now, it’s time to enrich this base with more flavors. Add 3 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of ketchup, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon, and a dash of cayenne pepper. Finish with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir everything together until well combined.

ding" id="step-6-simmer-the-sauce">Step 6: Simmer the Sauce

Place the saucepan over medium-low heat. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook for about 10-15 minutes. This simmering process helps meld all those flavors together, creating a harmonious sauce.

Step 7: Cool and Store

Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove it from the heat. Allow the sauce to cool completely before pouring it into storage containers. Make sure to keep it refrigerated, where it will last for about 2 weeks.

Serving Suggestions for Roasted Rhubarb Barbecue Sauce

Now that your homemade Roasted Rhubarb Barbecue Sauce is ready, the possibilities for serving it are endless:

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  • Grilled Meats: Brush it on chicken, ribs, or pork chops during the last few minutes of grilling for a shiny, flavorful glaze.
  • Vegetarian Dishes: Use it to complement grilled tofu or jackfruit to bring out subtle flavors.
  • Sandwiches: Slather it on burgers or grilled cheese for an exciting new twist.
  • Dips or Marinades: Use it as a dip for veggies or as a marinade for proteins before cooking.
  • Pasta Dishes: Drizzle over pasta for a bold sweetness that pairs well with creamy sauces.

    • Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Roasted Rhubarb Barbecue Sauce

    Homemade roasted rhubarb barbecue sauce in a jar
    1. Taste as You Go: Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning while simmering. Taste the sauce and tweak the ingredients until it fits your preference.
    2. Experiment with Texture: If you like a chunkier sauce, blend it for a shorter time. For a smooth sauce, blend a bit longer.
    3. Mind the Acres of Rhubarb: You can use either green or red rhubarb, but red tends to be sweeter. Adjust the sugar depending on the tartness of your rhubarb.
    4. Keep it Fresh: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley right before serving for a fresh touch that brightens the sauce.
    5. Batch Cooking: Feel free to double or triple the recipe. This sauce freezes beautifully, so you can have it on hand anytime you crave it.

    Easy Variations for Roasted Rhubarb Barbecue Sauce

    ding" id="storage-tips-to-store-roasted-rhubarb-barbecue-sauce">Storage Tips to Store Roasted Rhubarb Barbecue Sauce

    After creating your delicious sauce, you may have some leftovers. Here’s how to store it properly:

    Conclusion

    Incorporating Roasted Rhubarb Barbecue Sauce into your cooking routine can add an exciting punch to your meals. Not only does this sauce bring something new to the table, but it’s also a clever way to utilize the unique flavor of rhubarb. Whether you’re grilling outside or cozying up with a comforting meal at home, this sauce can enhance your dining experience in remarkable ways.

    Get your ingredients

    ready, follow the easy steps, and indulge in a homemade BBQ sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Making it from scratch means you’re in control, allowing you to adjust ingredients to fit your taste perfectly.

    FAQs About Roasted Rhubarb Barbecue Sauce

    1. Can I use frozen rhubarb for this recipe?

    Yes, you can use frozen rhubarb. Just thaw it completely and drain any excess liquid before using.

    2. How long will the barbecue sauce last in the refrigerator?

    Properly stored in an airtight container, the sauce will last for about 2 weeks in the refrigerator.

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    3. Is this sauce spicy?

    The sauce has a mild kick due to the chili powder and cayenne. You can adjust the heat by omitting the cayenne or adding more, depending on your preference.

    4. Can I add other fruits to this sauce?

    Absolutely! Adding berries, like strawberries or raspberries, can bring a sweet and fruity element that pairs well with the rhubarb.

    5. What should I serve this sauce with?

    Roasted Rhubarb Barbecue Sauce goes well with grilled meats, sandwiches, and even roasted veggies. Experiment and find your favorite pairing!

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    With our guide and your newfound recipe, you’re all set to create a flavorful Roasted Rhubarb Barbecue Sauce that will impress family and friends alike! Happy cooking!

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