Easy Steps to Make, Can, and Enjoy Your Own Cherry BBQ Sauce

When it comes to enhancing the taste of grilled meats, burgers, and even veggies, nothing compares to a rich, homemade BBQ sauce. Imagine the sweet flavor of cherries paired with classic barbecue spices. This combination creates a sauce that can elevate even the simplest meal into a gourmet experience. Ready to get started? Let’s explore how to make, can, and enjoy your homemade cherry BBQ sauce!

Why Cherry BBQ Sauce?

Cherry BBQ sauce is unique and extremely versatile. The natural sweetness of cherries perfectly complements the smokiness of grilled meats. For example, many people love this sauce on ribs, pulled pork, chicken, and even roasted vegetables. In fact, studies show that sauces with fruit flavors can increase meal satisfaction by up to 25%. Making it at home also allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring fresher flavors and eliminating preservatives.

Making Cherry BBQ Sauce

Ingredients You'll Need

To begin your cherry BBQ sauce journey, collect the following ingredients:

• 6 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted

• 1 cup finely chopped onion

• 2/3 cup red wine vinegar

• 1 cup brown sugar

• 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

• 1/4 cup honey

• 1/2 cup minced garlic

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 3 tablespoons molasses

• 2 tablespoons pineapple juice

• 2 teaspoons salt

• 1 teaspoon pepper

• 1 teaspoon dry mustard

  
  

These ingredients are typically easy to find, and you might already have some in your pantry!

The Cooking Process

1. Prepare the Cherries: If you're using fresh cherries, make sure to pit them first. If using frozen cherries, allow them to thaw slightly.

   
   

2. Blend It Up: Place the pitted cherries in a blender. Blend until smooth.

   

   
   

3. Sauté the onions in the oil until the onions are soft. Add the garlic and sauté a few minutes longer.

   

4. Add all ingredients to a large pot.

   
   

5. Simmer: Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally and let it cook for 30-45 minutes. This process allows the flavors to meld while the sauce thickens.

   
   

After simmering, you’ll have a rich and aromatic cherry BBQ sauce ready for canning or immediate use!

Canning Your Cherry BBQ Sauce

Now, let’s dive into canning! This process not only extends the shelf life of your sauce but also lets you enjoy the taste of summer cherries all year long.

What You'll Need for Canning

• Canning jars (half pint)

• Canning lids and bands

• Boiling water bath

• jar lifter

  
  

The Canning Process

1. Fill the Jars: Using a funnel, carefully pour your hot cherry BBQ sauce into the half pint jars, leaving 1/2 inch of headspace.

   
   

2. Seal It Up: Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth to remove any residue and place the lids on top. Screw on the bands until they are fingertip-tight.

   (For quality, American made Superb canning lids and jars follow this link and use the coupon code WP20 to get 20% off your purchase.) 

   
   

3. Process the Jars: Place the filled jars into your boiling water bath. Ensure they are covered by at least an inch of water. Boil for 15 minutes if at sea level. (Adjust the processing time if you are above 1000 feet.)

   
   

4. Cool Down: Allow the jars to cool in the canner with the heat and lid off for 5 minutes. Remove the jars carefully using the jar lifter. Place them on a heat resistant surface  and allow them to cool 24 hours. Listen for that satisfying "pop" sound—that means your jars are sealing!

   
   

5. Store: After cooling, check the seals by pressing down in the center of the lid. If it is firm and does not pop back, your jar has sealed properly. Remove the ring and wash the jars with hot soapy water. Store in a cool, dry, dark place; they can last up to 3 years!

   
   

How to Enjoy Your Cherry BBQ Sauce

Now that you’ve made and canned your cherry BBQ sauce, what can you do with it? Here are some tasty ideas:

Grill it Up

Use your cherry BBQ sauce as a glaze for grilled meats. Brush it on chicken and ribs in the last few minutes of cooking to let it caramelize. It adds an irresistible sticky sweetness!

Dip and Drizzle

Serve your cherry BBQ sauce as a dip for appetizers. Veggie skewers and meatballs pair wonderfully with this sauce. Drizzle it over burgers for an added twist that will impress your guests.

Flavorful Marinade

This sauce can also act as a marinade. Allow your protein to soak in it for a few hours before grilling or roasting. The cherry flavor will enhance the dish significantly.

Create a Cherry BBQ Pizza

For a fun twist, use your sauce as a base for pizza. Spread the sauce on dough, add your favorite toppings, cheese, and bake until golden. The cherry flavor will be a delightful surprise!

Savor the Experience

Homemade cherry BBQ sauce is a fantastic way to elevate your meals while enjoying the health benefits of fresh fruits. With its sweet and tangy profile, it’s versatile enough for many dishes. Whether you can it for future enjoyment or use it right away, you’ll truly appreciate the fruits of your labor.

Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and prepare for a flavor explosion. Your friends and family will be asking for the recipe! You can confidently say goodbye to store-bought sauces and embrace the delightful experience of homemade cherry BBQ sauce.