30-Minute Smoky Chipotle Barbecue Sauce
A rich, complex barbecue sauce that balances sweet molasses and honey with smoky chipotle peppers and earthy ancho chile. The addition of Dijon mustard and red wine vinegar creates tangy depth, while slow simmering develops concentrated flavors. Perfect for grilling season or year-round use on ribs, pulled pork, or grilled chicken. This restaurant-style sauce sets itself apart with its sophisticated blend of multiple chile varieties and careful balance of sweet and smoky elements.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons canola oil
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, chopped
- 2 cups ketchup
- ⅝ cup water
- ¼ cup ancho chile pepperchipotle powder1:3spicy
less complex flavor
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 chipotle chiles in adobo, choppedsmoked paprika + cayenne2:1 + pinchspicy
milder smoke flavor
- ¼ cup dark brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
- 1
Heat canola oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat
- 2
Add onion and cook until soft
- 3
Add garlic and cook for 1 minute
- 4
Add ketchup and water, bring to a boil
- 5
Reduce to simmer for 5 minutes
- 6
Add remaining ingredients and simmer for 10 minutes or until thickened, stirring occasionally
- 7
Transfer mixture to a food processor and puree until smooth
- 8
Pour into a mason jar and cool to room temperature
Tips
Let the sauce cool completely before storing to allow flavors to meld and develop full complexity.
Adjust sweetness by adding more honey or molasses, or heat level with additional chipotle peppers.
Strain through fine mesh if you prefer completely smooth texture without any chile pieces.
Good to Know
Refrigerate in airtight container for up to 2 weeks
Can be made up to 1 week ahead, flavors improve with time
At room temperature or slightly warmed
Common Mistakes
Don't skip the simmering time to avoid thin, underdeveloped flavors
Cool completely before jarring to prevent condensation and spoilage
Substitutions
milder smoke flavor
FAQ
Can I make this sauce less spicy?
Yes, reduce or omit the chipotle chiles and use sweet paprika instead of smoked paprika for a milder version.
How long will this barbecue sauce keep?
Stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container, this sauce will keep for up to 2 weeks.
Can I freeze this barbecue sauce?
Yes, freeze in ice cube trays or small containers for up to 6 months. Thaw completely before using.