Honey Barbecue Sauce
Sweet and savory honey barbecue sauce combines honey, sherry, soy, and garlic for a rich, complex flavor perfect for grilling, dipping, or glazing meats and vegetables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together the honey, sherry, soy sauce, and garlic.
- The sauce may be made 1 week in advance and kept covered and chilled.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce for some heat. If you want a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce. You can also substitute the wine sherry with apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist. Adjust the sweetness by increasing or decreasing the honey based on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
This honey barbecue sauce pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, ribs, or vegetables. Serve it alongside a fresh salad, like a Special Occasion Salad Dressing, or as a dipping sauce for appetizers. It also complements sides like coleslaw or cornbread, making it perfect for summer barbecues or casual gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover honey barbecue sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. When ready to use, simply reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. This sauce can also be used as a marinade or glaze for grilled meats.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Honey Barbecue Sauce contains roughly 153 calories, with 2g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1106mg per serving (48% 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 make this sauce vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this honey barbecue sauce vegan by substituting the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. This will maintain the sweetness while keeping the recipe plant-based.
How spicy is this sauce?
This recipe is not spicy, but you can easily adjust the heat level by adding crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to taste. Start with a small amount and increase as desired to achieve your preferred spice level.
Can I use this sauce for grilling?
Absolutely! This honey barbecue sauce is perfect for grilling. Brush it onto meats or vegetables during the last few minutes of cooking to create a delicious glaze. Just be careful not to apply it too early, as the sugars can burn.
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).