Cranberry Easy Barbecue Sauce
A tangy and sweet barbecue sauce blending cranberry flavor with traditional spices, perfect for glazing meats and chicken, adding festive flair to grilled dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a 2-quart saucepan.
- Bring to boiling; reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Use to brush on meat or chicken at the end of grilling time.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or Worcestershire sauce. You can substitute the chili powder with smoked paprika for a different twist. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, increase the brown sugar. This sauce works well with grilled meats, perfect for summer barbecues. For a vegetarian option, brush it on grilled vegetables or use it with Sun Burgers.
Serving Suggestions
This barbecue sauce is perfect for brushing on grilled chicken, ribs, or burgers. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or with cheesy sides like Cheesy Cauliflower Broccoli for a hearty meal. It also pairs well with baked beans or corn on the cob for a complete barbecue spread. Try serving it with your favorite American recipes for a flavorful twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much, add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency. This sauce is also great for meal prep and can be frozen for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cranberry Easy Barbecue Sauce contains roughly 594 calories, with 4g protein, 148g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (39% of the Daily Value), iron (32% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 514mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cranberry sauce instead of jellied?
Yes, you can use fresh cranberry sauce, but it will alter the texture and consistency of the barbecue sauce. Jellied cranberry sauce provides a smooth blend that integrates well with the other ingredients. If using fresh, consider blending it to achieve a similar consistency.
Is this sauce spicy?
The sauce has a mild kick due to the chili powder, but it's not overly spicy. If you prefer a hotter sauce, you can add cayenne pepper or increase the amount of chili powder. Adjust according to your taste preference to find the perfect balance.
How do I make this sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, simmer it longer to reduce the liquid content. Alternatively, you can mix a small amount of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the sauce while it's cooking. Allow it to simmer a few more minutes until it reaches your desired thickness.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).