When you think of BBQ sauce, rhubarb may not be the first ingredient that comes to mind. However, this tart and vibrant stalk can elevate your summer grilling game to new heights! Rhubarb BBQ sauce combines the bright acidity of the rhubarb with sweet and savory flavors to create a unique condiment that’s perfect for meats and vegetables alike. Plus, the bonus of canning this delightful sauce means you can enjoy it long after the grilling season is over. Let’s dive into the world of Rhubarb BBQ sauce and discover how to can it for your pantry!
The Magic of Rhubarb: A Brief Overview
A Culinary Wonder
Rhubarb, often mistaken for a fruit, is actually a vegetable. It’s most commonly recognized by its vibrant red stalks and large green leaves, though it’s important to note that the leaves are toxic and should never be consumed. Rhubarb has a tart, tangy flavor that makes it a wonderful base for sauces, jams, and desserts.
Cultural Significance
Historically, rhubarb has roots tracing back to ancient China, where it was valued for its medicinal properties. In Europe, it gained popularity in the 18th century and quickly became a favorite in sweet desserts, particularly pies. Today, we’re flipping the script and embracing rhubarb in savory dishes like BBQ sauce, celebrating its versatility and flavor profile.
Crafting Your Rhubarb BBQ Sauce
Ingredients You'll Need
To create your own Rhubarb BBQ sauce, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups chopped rhubarb (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 cup ketchup (or substitute with tomato paste for a more concentrated flavor)
- ½ cup brown sugar (adjust to taste)
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for that BBQ touch)
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Tips
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Prep Your Rhubarb: Start by washing and chopping the rhubarb into small pieces. This helps it break down more easily while cooking.
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Sauté Onions: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and sauté the diced onions until they are translucent and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the chopped rhubarb, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and ground mustard to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
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Simmer and Reduce: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and allow it to cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. The rhubarb will soften and the sauce will thicken. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
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Blend for Smoothness (Optional): If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until you reach your desired consistency.
Creative Twists
- Spicy Kick: Add a splash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños to give your BBQ sauce a bit of heat.
- Herbal Notes: Toss in some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary while the sauce simmers for an aromatic twist.
- Smoky Flavor: Incorporate a bit of liquid smoke if you want that authentic BBQ depth.
Canning Your Rhubarb BBQ Sauce
Canning is a great way to preserve your Rhubarb BBQ sauce and enjoy it throughout the year. Here’s a simple guide to safely canning your creation.
What You'll Need for Canning
- Clean glass jars with lids
- A large pot for boiling water
- A canning funnel
- A ladle
- Jar tongs
- A clean dishcloth
Canning Steps
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Sterilize Your Jars: Start by placing your clean jars and lids in boiling water for 10 minutes to sterilize them. This helps prevent spoilage.
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Fill Your Jars: Using a ladle and canning funnel, fill each jar with hot BBQ sauce, leaving about ½ inch of headspace.
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Seal the Jars: Wipe the rim of each jar with a clean cloth to ensure a good seal. Place the lids on and screw the metal bands until they’re finger-tight.
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Process in a Water Bath: Place the jars into the boiling water bath, making sure they’re submerged by at least an inch of water. Process for 15-20 minutes (adjusting for altitude).
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Cool and Store: Carefully remove the jars using jar tongs and let them cool completely on a towel or rack. Once cooled, ensure the lids are sealed by pressing down in the center; it shouldn’t pop back.
Serving Suggestions for Your Rhubarb BBQ Sauce
Now that you have jars of delicious Rhubarb BBQ sauce ready to go, it’s time to get creative with your meals! Here are some fun serving suggestions:
- Grilled Meats: Brush the sauce onto grilled chicken, pork, or beef for a tangy glaze.
- Veggie Dipping Sauce: Serve it as a dipping sauce for grilled vegetables or skewers.
- Sandwich Spread: Use it as a zesty spread on sandwiches or burgers to add a unique flavor twist.
- Marinade: Use the sauce as a marinade for your proteins to infuse them with flavor before cooking.
Final Thoughts: Embrace the Tangy Adventure
Canning Rhubarb BBQ sauce not only gives you a vibrant and unique condiment but also allows you to explore the tangy depth of flavors that rhubarb brings to the table. Whether you’re grilling, dipping, or spreading, this sauce is sure to become a summer staple and a conversation starter at your next cookout. So gather your ingredients, gather your friends, and get canning! You’ll be surprised at how a simple stalk of rhubarb can change your BBQ game. Happy canning!
