As summer heats up and the grill comes alive, there’s nothing quite like the burst of flavor that homemade sauces can bring to your table. When I created this Sweet and Spicy Homemade Plum BBQ Sauce, I was searching for a way to elevate our barbecue nights beyond the ordinary. Imagine the delightful aroma of sizzling vegetables on the grill, perfectly coated with a thick, glossy sauce that combines the sweetness of ripe plums with a hint of spice. It’s astonishing how quickly this crowd-pleaser comes together—just 20 minutes to transform simple ingredients into a vibrant condiment that truly enhances your meals. Whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering or simply craving a delicious addition to your dinner, this sauce offers not only a fresh twist but also the chance to make use of seasonal fruits in your kitchen. So let’s dive into this delightful recipe that is sure to impress anyone tired of the usual store-bought options!
Why is Homemade Plum BBQ Sauce a Must-Try?
Flavor Explosion: The fusion of sweet plums and tangy ingredients creates a vibrant taste that will elevate any dish.
Quick Prep: Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for those last-minute grilling adventures.
Versatility: Use this sauce to complement veggies, meats, or even as a dip, making it perfect for any meal.
Seasonal Twist: Incorporate fresh, seasonal fruits, tailoring the sauce to what you have on hand—try peaches or nectarines for a unique spin!
Crowd-Pleaser: Impress guests at your next barbecue with a homemade taste that stands out from store-bought options.
Check out our serving suggestions to explore even more ways to enjoy this delicious sauce!
Homemade Plum BBQ Sauce Ingredients
For the Sauce
• Chopped Plums – Provides sweetness and a rich base for the sauce; no need to peel, just remove the pits.
• Catsup – Adds a tangy depth and serves as a thickening agent for the sauce.
• Brown Sugar – Enhances sweetness and caramelizes, bringing richness to the flavor profile.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – Contributes acidity to balance the sweetness and enhance the overall flavor.
• Worcestershire Sauce (or Soy Sauce for Vegan) – Adds umami and complexity to the sauce.
• Salt – Enhances other flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Pepper – Introduces mild heat to the mix.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Offers a hint of spice to kick up the flavor profile.
• Garlic Powder – Adds an aromatic, savory note that elevates the overall taste.
For the Kabobs
• Vegetables of Choice – Use your favorites like bell peppers, zucchini, or onions; they’ll be beautifully coated in the homemade plum BBQ sauce.
How to Make Homemade Plum BBQ Sauce
- Chop the plums, removing the pits. Make sure to use ripe, juicy plums to get that sweet flavor right. Aim for about 2 cups of chopped fruit to ensure ample sauce for your dishes.
- Blend the chopped plums with catsup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and garlic powder. Pulse until the mixture is smooth, bringing the flavors together beautifully.
- Cook the sauce by pouring it into a small cast iron skillet. Set it on the grill or stovetop over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring often to avoid burning. You’ll want it bubbling gently while it thickens—a mouthwatering aroma will fill your kitchen!
- Prepare the skewers by washing and chopping your favorite vegetables. Brush them with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavors.
- Grill the vegetable skewers for approximately 3 minutes on each side. Be sure to baste them with the sauce until they are thoroughly cooked and have those enticing grill marks.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for an extra pop of flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Homemade Plum BBQ Sauce preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to meld wonderfully while you save precious time on busy weekdays. To do this, simply blend all of the ingredients and store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the kabobs, you can chop and season the vegetables up to 24 hours ahead; just make sure to refrigerate them to maintain freshness and prevent any browning. When you’re ready to grill, simply heat the sauce and baste the skewers for a delicious, hassle-free meal that is just as tasty as fresh!
How to Store and Freeze Homemade Plum BBQ Sauce
Fridge: Store your homemade plum BBQ sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, ensuring you savor its freshness during the week.
Freezer: You can freeze the sauce for up to 3 months. Just pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion.
Thawing: To use frozen sauce, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or place the container in warm water until it’s soft again.
Reheating: When ready to use, gently reheat the sauce over low heat on the stovetop, stirring until warmed through for the best texture and flavor.
Expert Tips for Homemade Plum BBQ Sauce
Stir Constantly: Always stir the sauce while it reduces to prevent burning and achieve the perfect texture.
Fruit Substitutions: Feel free to swap plums for fruits like peaches or nectarines; just adjust the sweetness with more brown sugar if needed.
Use Cast Iron: Cooking the sauce in a cast iron skillet on the grill adds a smoky depth – perfect for that authentic BBQ flavor!
Store Properly: Keep leftover homemade plum BBQ sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for later use.
Taste and Adjust: Always taste as you go! If the sauce is too sweet, add a little more vinegar to balance the flavors.
Perfect for Everything: This sauce isn’t just for kabobs; use it as a dipping sauce for fries or as a glaze for grilled meats!
What to Serve with Homemade Plum BBQ Sauce?
As you prepare to elevate your summer meals, consider these delightful pairings that will enhance the flavors of your homemade creation.
- Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Perfectly charred veggies coated in the rich sauce create a vibrant, flavor-packed option that brightens any barbecue spread.
- Juicy Grilled Chicken: The sweet and tangy nature of the BBQ sauce pairs beautifully with chicken, adding depth and a burst of flavor to every bite.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or roasted, corn’s natural sweetness complements the sauce’s fruity notes, making for a delightful summer side.
- Pasta Salad: A light, refreshing pasta tossed with seasonal vegetables and a splash of plum BBQ sauce creates an unexpected and delicious twist.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Fill peppers with quinoa or rice, then top with the sauce before grilling for a hearty dish that’s both healthy and satisfying.
- Sweet Potato Fries: The combination of crispy, sweet potato fries and the rich sauce makes for a comforting yet vibrant dish that will leave guests wanting more.
- Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing drink with a hint of tartness perfectly contrasts the sweetness of the BBQ sauce, adding balance to your meal.
- Chocolate Brownies: For dessert, the richness of fudgy brownies offers a delightful end to the meal. Serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent treat.
Homemade Plum BBQ Sauce Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this delicious sauce your own with these delightful twists!
- Peachy Alternative: Swap plums for ripe peaches for a sweeter, summery twist on sauce flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of your favorite hot sauce for an extra layer of heat that spices things up delightfully.
- Smoky Infusion: Incorporate smoked paprika for a rich, smoky flavor—perfect for enhancing that BBQ taste on your grilled items.
- Zesty Delight: Squeeze in the juice of half a lime for a zesty brightness that balances the sweetness beautifully.
- Garlic Lovers: Increase garlic powder to 2 teaspoons for a bolder, more aromatic flavor that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Herbal Essence: Add chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary right at the end of cooking for a fragrant burst of freshness.
- Fruit Medley: Combine plums with other fruits like cherries or strawberries for a unique blend that tantalizes the palate.
- Miso Twist: For an umami boost, mix in a tablespoon of miso paste, enhancing the depth of flavor in your sauce.
Each variation lets you personalize the sauce to match your favorite flavors or what you have on hand, making every batch special!
Homemade Plum BBQ Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best plums for this Homemade Plum BBQ Sauce?
Absolutely! Choose ripe, juicy plums that have smooth skin and are evenly colored. Avoid any plums with dark spots or blemishes, as they may indicate overripeness. The ideal choice will give slightly when pressed—this indicates perfect ripeness. Aim for plums that are in season for the best flavor!
What’s the best way to store leftover plum BBQ sauce?
You can store your homemade plum BBQ sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it up. If you’re looking to keep it longer, consider freezing the sauce, as it will stay fresh for up to 3 months.
Can I freeze the Homemade Plum BBQ Sauce? If yes, how?
Yes, you absolutely can freeze it! Allow the sauce to cool completely after cooking. Then, pour it into freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Alternatively, you can use airtight containers, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion. For the best results, label the bags with the date before placing them in the freezer.
What should I do if my sauce is too sweet?
If you find your sauce leaning toward the sweet side, don’t worry! You can balance it out by adding a tablespoon or two of apple cider vinegar or a splash more Worcestershire sauce. Mix well and taste until you hit that lovely balance of sweet and tangy flavors that makes this Homemade Plum BBQ Sauce so irresistible.
Can I use this sauce for dietary restrictions, such as for pets or allergies?
When it comes to allergies, this plum BBQ sauce contains common allergens like soy (in Worcestershire sauce) and potential allergens in the ingredients you choose for kabobs. It’s always a good idea to modify based on individual dietary needs. As for pets, it’s best to keep this sauce away from your furry friends due to high sugar content and ingredients that may not sit well with them. Always consult your vet if unsure!
Irresistibly Sweet Homemade Plum BBQ Sauce for Grilling Adventures
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Chop the plums, removing the pits. Aim for about 2 cups of chopped fruit.
- Blend the chopped plums with catsup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and garlic powder until smooth.
- Cook the sauce in a cast iron skillet over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring often.
- Prepare the vegetable skewers by washing and chopping. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Grill the vegetable skewers for approximately 3 minutes on each side, basting with sauce.
