Save Experience a vibrant twist on traditional barbecue with this homemade Guava BBQ Sauce. By swapping standard tomato bases for rich, sweet guava paste, this recipe achieves a unique tropical flair. It is a thick, glossy, pink-orange condiment that perfectly balances aromatic spices, molasses, and tangy apple cider vinegar, making it a versatile choice for any kitchen.
Save This Caribbean-inspired sauce is as functional as it is flavorful. Whether you are using it as a marinade, a glaze for grilled proteins, or a dipping sauce, its smooth consistency and bold profile elevate everyday meals into something extraordinary.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (250 g) guava paste, chopped
- 1 cup (240 ml) water
- 1/3 cup (80 ml) apple cider vinegar
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon molasses
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Step 2
- Add guava paste, water, and apple cider vinegar. Stir until guava paste begins to dissolve.
- Step 3
- Add smoked paprika, cumin, black pepper, chili powder, allspice, cinnamon, salt, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well.
- Step 4
- Add brown sugar, molasses, Dijon mustard, and soy sauce. Mix thoroughly.
- Step 5
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring often. Reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and glossy.
- Step 6
- Remove from heat. Let cool slightly, then blend the sauce with an immersion blender (or transfer to a blender) until smooth.
- Step 7
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Let cool completely. Store in a clean jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
If guava paste is unavailable, you can substitute it with guava jelly; however, be sure to reduce the added brown sugar to compensate for the jelly's sweetness. For those who prefer a thinner sauce, simply whisk in a splash more water until you reach the desired consistency.
Varianten und Anpassungen
To increase the heat level, add more chili powder or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. To ensure the recipe is gluten-free, substitute the soy sauce with tamari and always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Serviervorschläge
This sauce is excellent as a glaze for grilled meats, but also pairs wonderfully with vegetables and tofu. It can even be used as a unique burger condiment or a sweet-tangy dipping sauce for finger foods.
Save Whip up a batch of this tropical sauce to keep on hand in your refrigerator. With its unique flavor profile and thick, glossy finish, it is sure to become a new favorite for all your grilling needs.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What does guava BBQ sauce taste like?
Guava BBQ sauce offers a unique tropical profile combining sweet fruitiness from the guava paste with tangy vinegar and smoky, warm spices. The flavor balances sweetness and acidity beautifully, creating a distinctive Caribbean-inspired twist on traditional barbecue sauce.
- → Can I use guava juice instead of paste?
Guava paste is recommended for its thick, concentrated sweetness and body. Guava juice would be too thin and require significant reduction. Guava jelly can work as a substitute, though you may need to reduce the added sugar to balance sweetness.
- → How long does homemade guava BBQ sauce keep?
Stored in a clean, airtight jar in the refrigerator, this sauce will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. Always use a clean utensil when scooping to prevent contamination and extend shelf life.
- → Is this sauce spicy?
The sauce has mild warmth from chili powder and optional red pepper flakes. It's designed to be family-friendly with a gentle kick. For more heat, increase the chili powder or add hot sauce to taste.
- → What dishes pair best with guava BBQ sauce?
This versatile sauce excels on grilled chicken, pork ribs, or shrimp. It's also fantastic on roasted vegetables, tofu, or as a unique burger condiment. The tropical notes make it especially good with Caribbean-inspired dishes.
- → Can I freeze this guava BBQ sauce?
Yes, this sauce freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before using. Freezing may slightly alter the texture, but flavor remains excellent.