Michael Symon’s BBQ Sauce Recipe

When it comes to BBQ sauce, Michael Symon knows exactly how to amplify flavors with his tantalizing recipes.

You can instantly transform your cookout flavors with ingredients like ketchup, brown sugar, and a hint of Worcestershire sauce.

Bold and smoky, this sauce pairs perfectly with everything from chicken to ribs.

One trick I’ve found is to give the sauce time to simmer, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully.

How to Make Michael Symon’s BBQ Sauce

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 Onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1 tsp Coriander Seeds
• 1 tsp Cumin Seeds
• 1 cup Sugar
• 1 cup Apple Cider Vinegar
• 1 cup Balsamic Vinegar
• 1 cup Ketchup
• 2 tsp Mustard Powder

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.

Add onion and garlic, cooking until they are softened, which usually takes about a minute, then add salt.

Step 2:

Toast coriander and cumin seeds in the same pan.

Let them bloom for about another minute to release their flavors.

Step 3:

Add sugar to the pan, stirring it until it melts and blends with the onion mixture.

Allow it to caramelize slightly for a rich flavor.

Step 4:

Pour in apple cider vinegar and balsamic vinegar.

Let the mixture simmer and reduce by about a quarter over medium heat, which takes around 10 minutes.

Step 5:

Mix in ketchup and mustard powder.

Stir well and let it all combine together on a gentle simmer for 15 more minutes, until the sauce thickens.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Balance Flavors

You might want to adjust the sweetness or tanginess based on your personal taste preference, so feel free to tweak the sugar or vinegar levels.

Storage Solutions

If you end up with leftovers, which you might, consider popping some into an airtight container and storing it in the fridge for up to a week.

Spice it Up

Don’t hesitate to add a dash of chili powder or some chili flakes if you’re a fan of an extra kick!

This little twist can make your BBQ sauce even more exciting.

What to Serve with Michael Symon BBQ Sauce

Classic Coleslaw

You can’t go wrong with pairing your BBQ dish with a refreshing coleslaw.

The crunchy texture of cabbage and the tangy dressing balance beautifully with the richness of BBQ sauce.

Serve it chilled for an extra refreshing contrast to your warm BBQ meal!

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Grilled corn is another classic that pairs wonderfully with BBQ flavors.

Brush the corn with some herb-infused butter and sprinkle a little salt and pepper.

The smoky, sweet flavors of the corn complement the BBQ sauce perfectly.

Sweet Potato Fries

If you’re looking for something a bit different, sweet potato fries are an excellent choice.

They have a natural sweetness that goes well with the tangy and spicy notes in the sauce.

Bake or fry them until they’re crispy, and you’ll have a side that’s hard to resist.

Watermelon Salad

Watermelon salad adds a fresh and vibrant twist to your BBQ meal.

With chunks of juicy watermelon, feta cheese, and a sprinkle of mint, it’s both refreshing and flavorful.

This salad provides a sweet and savory contrast to the BBQ sauce that’s super yummy.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Hold on to your hats because roasted Brussels sprouts might steal the show here.

With a bit of olive oil and seasoning, these sprouts can be transformed into a crispy, savory side.

They offer an earthy note that pairs surprisingly well with the rich smokiness of the BBQ sauce.

Jalapeño Cornbread

Spice things up a little with jalapeño cornbread alongside your BBQ feast.

The soft, crumbly texture of cornbread with a hint of heat from the jalapeños is a winning combination.

It’s perfect for sopping up that delicious sauce, making every bite moist and flavorful.

Variations and Substitutions

Mixing up your barbecue sauce can be a fun adventure!

Experiment with different flavors to find your perfect balance.

Soy Sauce Alternatives

If you’re out of soy sauce, don’t worry!

You can use tamari, Worcestershire sauce, or even miso paste as a substitute.

These alternatives bring their unique flavors, adding depth and complexity to your sauce.

Sweetness Level

Adjust the sweetness to your liking.

You can swap traditional sugar with honey, molasses, or brown sugar.

Each one offers a different kind of sweetness, making the sauce more personal to your taste.

Spicy Kick

Adding some heat can elevate your barbecue experience.

Try using hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes.

These options let you control the spice level, ensuring every bite is perfectly fiery.

Vinegar Variations

For a tangy twist, mix up your vinegars.

Consider using apple cider vinegar, balsamic vinegar, or even a good red wine vinegar.

Each variety tweaks the acidity, giving you fresh and exciting barbecue possibilities.

How to Store Leftover Michael Symon BBQ Sauce

BBQ sauce can stay fresh in the fridge for up to two weeks when stored properly!

I recommend using a clean, airtight glass jar to keep the sauce from absorbing any undesirable flavors or odors.

Make sure to label the jar with the date so you know how long it’s been in the fridge.

Refrigeration

Always cool the BBQ sauce to room temperature before transferring it to the fridge.

Pour the sauce into a jar or an airtight container, filling it almost to the top.

Avoid using plastic containers, which may impart an off-taste to the sauce.

Freezing

For longer storage, freezing is a fantastic option that can keep your BBQ sauce safe for up to six months!

Ensure your sauce is completely cooled before sealing in a freezer-safe container.

Consider dividing the sauce into smaller portions to make thawing easier and reduce waste.

Avoid Contamination

Always use a clean spoon or utensil when scooping your sauce to prevent bacterial growth.

Resist the urge to dip your food straight into the storage container, as it can introduce contaminants.

Keep the lid tightly sealed at all times, especially when not in use, to maintain the sauce’s quality.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid Early Sauce Application

One common mistake is slathering the BBQ sauce on too soon during cooking.

This can lead to the sugars in the sauce burning and leaving a bitter taste on your meat.

It’s better to apply the sauce towards the end of cooking for optimal flavor and caramelization.

Experiment with Sweeteners

Another pitfall is sticking solely to granulated sugar when crafting your BBQ sauce.

Experiment with alternatives like honey, molasses, or maple syrup for a richer, more complex sweetness.

This can enhance the overall flavor profile without overwhelming the dish.

Balance Flavors Carefully

An imbalance in flavors can occur if the sauce is too sweet, tangy, or spicy.

Make sure to taste frequently and adjust ingredients gradually until you strike the perfect balance.

A harmonious blend ensures your BBQ sauce complements the meat perfectly!