Homemade Smoky Jack Daniel’s Barbecue Sauce

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It’s About The Sauce!

There seems to be a regional camp for every type of barbecue sauce, and everyone seems to have an opinion. I developed this barbecue sauce recipe and let me tell you, the opinion amongst my peers is this homemade homemade Jack Daniel’s barbecue sauce belongs in camp amazing! It’s smoky, tangy, sweet, slightly spicy, notes create an irresistible symphony of flavors as they come together on your succulent ribs, tender chicken, or juicy burgers. There’s a few extra ingredients to buy, but if you want to savor the magic of an incredible barbecue cookout, it’ll be well worth it.

Ingredients

• 2 cups ketchup
• 2 cups spicy V8 Juice
• 1 can 7.76 oz La Costena chipotle sauce
• 1 cup peach preserves
• 1/2 cup Jack Daniel’s whiskey
• 1 Tablespoon liquid smoke, you may want to use more or less based on your personal taste. I used Wright’s.
• 1 Tablespoon fresh garlic, pressed
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• 2 Tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 Tablespoons onion powder
• 1 Tablespoon garlic powder
• 2 Tablespoons smoked paprika
• 2 Tablespoons chili powder

Smoky Jack Daniel’s Whiskey

Jack Daniel’s whiskey plays a significant role in this recipe. The whiskey’s is aged in charred oak barrels, creating a robust, smoky oak flavor, combined with a subtle sweet caramel taste and subtle hints of vanilla. Once it simmers down into the sauce, it adds a blend of oaky goodness to the barbecue sauce.

Liquid Smoke

Be sure to use a good quality liquid smoke. Cheaper brands tend to taste artificial in my opinion. Additionally, you may want to use liquid smoke to taste, because a little goes a long way. I used a tablespoon, but you may want to use a little more or a little less based on your preference.

Chipotle Sauce

Chipotle chilies are dried peppers that have been smoked over a fire. This smoking process creates a delicate balance between heat and flavor. La Costena chipotle sauce is on the milder side. It adds a nice, spicy, smoky flavor without overwhelming the sauce. The smokiness takes the edge off the heat, making it accessible to a wide range of palates.

Instructions

Mix all ingredients together in a heavy bottom pot over medium heat. As it starts to bubble, turn heat down to low. Allow the flavors to come together by simmering for about 2 hours, until reduced down and thickened. Stir frequently.

Try It With My Smoky Barbecue Baby Back Ribs Recipe!