Ancho Chile BBQ Sauce

Fire up your taste buds with this bold Ancho Chile BBQ Sauce! With its smoky, spicy kick and rich depth of flavor, it’s the perfect sauce to elevate any grilled dish. Get ready to take your BBQ game to the next level!

Ancho Chile BBQ Sauce is a flavorful twist on traditional barbecue sauces, offering a perfect balance of smokiness, heat, and sweetness.

Made with ancho chilies, this sauce has a rich, deep flavor profile with just the right amount of spice to enhance grilled meats or veggies. The subtle sweetness from ingredients like brown sugar and a hint of tang from vinegar makes it an ideal addition to any BBQ dish, whether you’re slathering it on ribs, chicken, or using it as a dipping sauce. Easy to make and incredibly versatile, this sauce will elevate your grilling experience!

Why You Will Love This Ancho BBQ Sauce Recipe

• Smoky and Rich Flavor: Adds deep, smoky depth to dishes.
• Balanced Sweetness: Perfectly combines sweet and savory notes.
• Versatile for Grilling: Ideal for meats, veggies, and seafood.
• Easy to Make: Quick and simple to prepare at home.
• Customizable Spice Level: Adjust heat to your personal preference.
• Perfect for Summer: Great for BBQs, cookouts, and grilling.
• Unique and Flavorful: A twist on traditional BBQ sauces.

Ancho BBQ Sauce Ingredients

• Ancho Chili Peppers: Adds rich, smoky heat with deep flavor.
• Vegetable Oil: Helps sauté vegetables and create smooth texture.
• Yellow Onion (Chopped): Provides sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• Fresh Minced Garlic: Enhances flavor with a fresh, aromatic kick.
• Tomato Paste: Adds richness and thickness to the sauce.
• Cider Vinegar: Balances sweetness with tangy acidity.
• Light Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and caramel flavor to sauce.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Deepens savory umami flavor in the sauce.
• Molasses: Brings depth and richness to the sauce.
• Cayenne Powder: Adds heat and a spicy kick to the sauce.
• Paprika: Contributes mild smokiness and vibrant color.
• Ancho Chili Powder: Enhances the smoky flavor with mild heat.
• Cumin: Adds earthy, warm undertones to the sauce.
• Salt and Pepper (To taste): Balances and enhances all the flavors.
• Soaking Water or Stock (For thinning): Adjusts consistency for smooth application.

How to Make Ancho BBQ Sauce

Step One: Start by soaking the dried Ancho chili peppers in warm water for about 15-20 minutes or until softened. After they’re rehydrated, remove the stems and seeds, then finely chop or blend them into a paste.

Step Two: In a saucepan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add chopped yellow onions and cook until soft and translucent (about 4-5 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2-3 minutes to develop its flavor. Then, add cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, molasses, light brown sugar, and the rehydrated Ancho chili paste. Mix well.

Step Three: Add cayenne powder, paprika, Ancho chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the sauce. Stir everything together and let it simmer on low heat for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency. If the sauce is too thick, thin it with a bit of the soaking water or stock until it reaches your preferred consistency.

Cool and Serve: Let the sauce cool to room temperature before using. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Ancho Chile BBQ Sauce Recipe Tips

• Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a spicier sauce, feel free to add more cayenne powder or even a dash of hot sauce. You can also increase the amount of ancho chili powder for a deeper flavor.
• Make It Ahead: This BBQ sauce tastes even better after it sits for a few hours or overnight. The flavors will meld and intensify, making it a great make-ahead option.
• Control Thickness: If the sauce becomes too thick while simmering, add a little more soaking water or stock to thin it out to your desired consistency.
• Flavor Variations: Experiment by adding a splash of bourbon or a tablespoon of honey for added depth and sweetness. You can also use smoked paprika for an extra smoky flavor.
• Perfect Pairings: Use this sauce on grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a dipping sauce for fries and chicken wings for a bold kick.

Storing

• Storing: Store your Ancho Chile BBQ Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Be sure to let the sauce cool completely before refrigerating to maintain its flavor.
• Freezing: You can freeze Ancho Chile BBQ Sauce for up to three months. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag, and thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to use.
• Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it’s too thick, add a small amount of water or stock to reach the desired consistency.

What To Serve With Ancho Chile BBQ Sauce

Ancho Chile BBQ Sauce pairs perfectly with a wide variety of dishes, adding a smoky, spicy kick to your meals. Serve it with grilled meats like chicken, pork ribs, or steak for a deliciously bold flavor boost.

It also works wonderfully as a dipping sauce for crispy fries, onion rings, or even roasted vegetables. For a complete meal, try it with classic BBQ sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans to balance the heat and sweetness of the sauce. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or cooking a weeknight dinner, Ancho Chile BBQ Sauce will elevate any dish!

Ancho Chile BBQ Sauce Recipe Faqs

What is Ancho chili powder? Ancho chili powder is made from dried, smoked poblano peppers. It has a mild to medium heat level and offers a deep, smoky flavor with a slightly sweet and earthy taste.

Can I adjust the spiciness of this sauce? Yes! If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the amount of cayenne powder. For more heat, add extra cayenne powder or a chopped hot pepper of your choice.

Can I make this BBQ sauce ahead of time? Absolutely! This sauce actually tastes better after it has had time to sit and allow the flavors to meld together. Make it a day or two in advance for optimal flavor.

Can I use a different type of chili powder? While Ancho chili powder is ideal for this recipe, you can substitute it with other chili powders, but it will alter the flavor profile. Consider using a blend of mild chili powders for a similar smoky taste.

How long will this BBQ sauce last? Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, Ancho Chile BBQ Sauce will last for about 1 to 2 weeks.

Can I freeze Ancho Chile BBQ Sauce? Yes! You can freeze the sauce in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before using.

Is this BBQ sauce vegan? Yes! This recipe is vegan-friendly, made without any animal products.

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