5 min
20 min
2 Cups
Sauce, Marinate
United States
If you're looking for a unique twist on traditional barbecue sauce, this Smoky Sweet Elderberry BBQ Sauce is the perfect choice. Combining the rich, antioxidant-packed flavor of Elderberry Honey Syrup with the familiar sweetness of pure honey, this sauce brings a depth of flavor that you won’t find in store-bought varieties.
The addition of smoked paprika and Worcestershire sauce gives the BBQ sauce that signature smoky flavor, making it ideal for grilling meats like chicken, pork, or even ribs. It’s versatile enough to be used as a marinade, glaze, or dipping sauce, and the subtle heat from the optional cayenne pepper gives it just the right kick. Whether you're planning a summer cookout or simply looking for a way to elevate a weeknight dinner, this sauce is guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup Elderberry Syrup
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- 1 cup ketchup
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to make. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick simmer on the stovetop, you can whip up a batch of homemade BBQ sauce in less than 20 minutes. It’s a great way to incorporate the immune-boosting benefits of elderberry into your meals while enjoying the smoky, sweet flavors we all love in barbecue. Give it a try and take your grilling game to the next level!
Directions
Step 1
Combine, elderberry syrup, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper in a saucepan.
Step 2
Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld, about 10–15 minutes.
Step 3
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed
Step 4
Let cool and store in an airtight container.
Step 5
Enjoy on all of your favorite dishes!
Health Benefits of Elderberry
Elderberries have long been celebrated for their potent health benefits, and it’s easy to see why they’ve become a popular natural remedy. These small but mighty berries are rich in antioxidants, especially flavonoids, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and promote overall wellness.
One of the standout benefits of elderberries is their ability to support the immune system. Packed with vitamins A, C, and E, elderberries can help strengthen your body's natural defenses. Elderberry syrup, such as the Elderberry Maple Syrup used in this BBQ sauce, is known to reduce the severity and duration of cold and flu symptoms, making it an excellent addition to your meals year-round.
We take pride in using organic elderberries and ingredients, made by real people in small batches on our ROC-certified farm in Maine . This ensures not only the highest quality but also a commitment to sustainable and responsible farming practices. Every bottle of syrup is carefully crafted, preserving the powerful nutrients and antioxidants of the elderberries, so you get a healthful boost with every bite.
Elderberries also offer anti-inflammatory benefits, which can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases and promote heart health. Plus, their high vitamin C content aids in collagen production, supporting healthy skin. By incorporating elderberry syrup into your diet, you're not just enjoying a delicious BBQ sauce but also benefiting from the natural immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties of this superfood.
Can I make this BBQ sauce ahead of time?
es! This sauce stores well in the fridge for up to two weeks in an airtight container. You can also freeze it for longer storage and thaw it when you're ready to use.
Is the cayenne pepper necessary?
No, the cayenne pepper is optional. It adds a mild heat, but you can skip it if you prefer a completely mild BBQ sauce or add more for extra spice.
What can I use this BBQ sauce for?
This sauce is incredibly versatile! It works great as a glaze for grilled or roasted meats, a dipping sauce for chicken wings or veggies, or even spread on sandwiches for extra flavor.
Can I adjust the sweetness in this recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of maple syrup. For a sweeter version, you can increase the maple or elderberry syrup to your liking.
Is this BBQ sauce gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you ensure that your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free, the entire recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Can I substitute the Dijon mustard with another type?
If you don’t have Dijon mustard on hand, you can use yellow mustard or even spicy brown mustard for a slightly different flavor profile.
