Tangy Rhubarb BBQ Sauce – Sweet, Zesty & Totally Unique!

I love putting a seasonal spin on classic condiments, and this Rhubarb BBQ Sauce is one of my favorite warm-weather discoveries.

It’s tangy, a little sweet, and has just the right amount of kick—perfect for brushing on grilled chicken, tofu, or burgers.

With rhubarb’s natural tartness and a blend of savory spices, this sauce delivers serious flavor without relying on bottled ketchup or refined sugar.

The tanginess of rhubarb combined with the sweetness of maple syrup creates an incredible balance that elevates any grilled dish.

Plus, with simple ingredients like tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, and low-sodium soy sauce, you can whip this up in no time.

Imagine slathering this flavorful sauce over grilled chicken, ribs, or even vegetables for a delightful burst of flavor.

The addition of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder gives this sauce a rich depth that will have everyone asking for your secret recipe.

Jump to Recipe

Here’s Why You’ll Love My Rhubarb BBQ Sauce

This BBQ sauce is bright, bold, and completely from scratch—but still easy enough for a weeknight.

Rhubarb brings a unique tang that balances beautifully with maple syrup and apple cider vinegar.

The smoky paprika and tomato paste round it out, giving it that classic BBQ vibe with a twist. It’s thick, pourable, and better than anything you’ll find in a store.

The Allure of Rhubarb in BBQ Sauces

Rhubarb, often celebrated for its tartness, brings a unique character to barbecue sauces. This vibrant ingredient not only adds a splash of color but also a delightful tang that can redefine your grilling experience.

Combining rhubarb with other ingredients such as tomato paste and maple syrup creates an extraordinary balance of flavors.

The sweetness from the maple syrup complements the natural tartness of the rhubarb, making every bite a new experience.

Ingredients That Make Magic Happen

The beauty of this rhubarb BBQ sauce lies in its simplicity. Essential ingredients include fresh rhubarb, tomato paste, and apple cider vinegar.

Each component plays a crucial role, ensuring a rich flavor profile.

Low-sodium soy sauce adds depth, while olive oil enhances the sauce’s texture. The inclusion of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder elevates the taste, creating a sauce that’s perfect for a variety of grilled dishes.

Creating the Sauce: A Step-by-Step Guide

To prepare this sauce, begin by combining diced rhubarb with tomato paste, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar in a saucepan.

This blend forms the foundation of your sauce, bursting with flavors.

As you cook, the mixture simmers, allowing the rhubarb to break down. Stirring occasionally ensures an even consistency.

The addition of smoked paprika and garlic powder during this phase infuses the sauce with a delightful aroma.

Achieving the Perfect Consistency

For those who prefer a smooth texture, blending the mixture after it cools can enhance the overall experience.

An immersion blender works wonders, making the sauce velvety and ready to slather on your favorite grilled items.

Once blended, allow the sauce to cool before transferring it to a container. This sauce can be stored in the refrigerator, ready to elevate your summer grilling sessions.

Serving Suggestions for Grilling Delight

This sauce is incredible on grilled chicken, pork, tofu, or tempeh. Try brushing it over skewers or mixing it into shredded jackfruit for a tangy vegan BBQ sandwich.

It also makes a great dipping sauce for sweet potato fries or spread on a grilled veggie burger.

Its versatility means it can be used as a marinade, basting sauce, or dipping condiment.

Imagine serving a plate of succulent grilled meats generously coated with this vibrant sauce.

The combination of smoky flavors and the tangy sweetness of rhubarb will surely impress your guests.

Final Thoughts on Rhubarb BBQ Sauce

Incorporating rhubarb into your barbecue sauce repertoire brings a fresh perspective to traditional grilling flavors.

This unique sauce offers a delightful twist, perfect for summer gatherings.

With easy-to-find ingredients and a simple preparation method, it’s time to experiment and make this rhubarb BBQ sauce a staple for your next barbecue.

Enjoy the burst of flavors that each bite brings!

Tips for the Best Rhubarb BBQ Sauce

Chop your rhubarb finely so it softens quickly while simmering. Adjust the sweetness to taste depending on how tart your rhubarb is—older stalks tend to be more sour.

Don’t skip the simmer time—it helps meld the flavors and thicken the sauce. If you want it completely smooth, use an immersion blender after cooking.

Storage and Warming Leftovers

Store in an airtight container or glass jar in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. You can also freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheat gently in a small saucepan or the microwave before serving.