Guava BBQ Sauce From Scratch

Elevate your next cookout with this Guava BBQ Sauce from scratch. This tangy and tropical homemade sauce swaps traditional ketchup for the rich sweetness of guava paste, combined with aromatic spices and a balanced acidity. It is an effortless way to bring Caribbean-inspired flair to your kitchen with a glossy, vibrant finish.

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Whether you are glazing a rack of ribs or looking for a vibrant dip for grilled tofu, this sauce delivers a professional-grade depth of flavor. Its versatility makes it a must-have addition to your condiment repertoire, especially during grilling season.

Ingredients

• Base: 1 cup (250 g) guava paste, chopped; 1 cup (240 ml) water; 1/3 cup (80 ml) apple cider vinegar
• Aromatics: 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Spices & Flavor: 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Sweetness & Balance: 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon molasses; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Final Touch: 1 tablespoon soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)

Instructions

Step 1

Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

Step 2

Add guava paste, water, and apple cider vinegar. Stir until guava paste begins to dissolve.

Step 3

Add smoked paprika, cumin, black pepper, chili powder, allspice, cinnamon, salt, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well.

Step 4

Add brown sugar, molasses, Dijon mustard, and soy sauce. Mix thoroughly.

Step 5

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring often. Reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and glossy.

Step 6

Remove from heat. Let cool slightly, then blend the sauce with an immersion blender (or transfer to a blender) until smooth.

Step 7

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Let cool completely. Store in a clean jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To achieve the best texture, ensure the guava paste is fully dissolved before blending. Using an immersion blender is highly recommended as it creates a silky-smooth consistency without the need to transfer hot liquid between containers. Be sure to simmer uncovered to allow the sauce to reduce and thicken properly.

Varianten und Anpassungen

If guava paste is unavailable, you can substitute it with guava jelly; however, you should reduce the added brown sugar to maintain the correct balance. For those who prefer a spicier profile, simply increase the amount of chili powder or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce during the simmering process.

Serviervorschläge

This sauce is excellent with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a flavorful glaze for tofu. It also makes a fantastic condiment for burgers. If you prefer a thinner sauce for drizzling, simply stir in a splash more water after the blending process.

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By making your Guava BBQ Sauce from scratch, you avoid the preservatives and high-fructose corn syrup found in many store-bought options. Enjoy the fresh, tropical taste of this unique homemade creation!

Recipe FAQs

→ What makes guava BBQ sauce different from traditional barbecue sauce?

Guava brings natural tropical sweetness and fruity notes that aren't found in tomato-based sauces. The unique combination creates a vibrant, tangy profile that pairs exceptionally well with grilled foods and adds Caribbean-inspired depth.

→ Can I use fresh guava instead of guava paste?

Fresh guava contains too much water and won't provide the concentrated sweetness needed. Guava paste offers the right consistency and intense flavor. If unavailable, guava jelly works as a substitute—just reduce the added sugar.

→ How long does homemade guava BBQ sauce last?

Stored in a clean, airtight container in the refrigerator, this sauce keeps for up to 2 weeks. The vinegar and sugar act as natural preservatives. Always use a clean spoon to prevent contamination.

→ Is this guava BBQ sauce spicy?

The sauce has a mild warmth from chili powder and red pepper flakes, but it's not overly spicy. Adjust the heat level by adding more chili powder, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce to suit your taste.

→ What dishes pair best with guava BBQ sauce?

This versatile sauce shines on grilled chicken, pork ribs, or shrimp. It's also excellent on roasted vegetables, glazed tofu, burgers, or as a dipping sauce for fries and appetizers. The tropical sweetness complements savory and smoky flavors beautifully.

→ Can I freeze guava BBQ sauce?

Yes, freeze in freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and stir well before using. The texture may change slightly but flavor remains excellent.