Peach of the Old South Barbecue Sauce
Prepare to delight your taste buds with this captivating barbecue sauce, a cherished recipe from an El Paso cookbook by W. Park Kerr. This sauce, bursting with aromatic flavors and a distinctive bite, is sure to elevate your grilling experience. With its rich and vibrant taste, it’s perfect for any barbecue enthusiast looking to add a touch of Southern charm to their meals. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or simply craving a flavorful addition to your weeknight dinners, this sauce is your go-to choice. Plus, if you have leftovers, you can store them for up to a month, making it both convenient and delicious!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1/3 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup Southern Comfort (optional for added richness and depth)
- 2 tablespoons of your favorite hot sauce (optional for extra heat)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)
- 1 cup finely chopped fresh peaches (optional for extra peachy flavor)
Instructions:
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Combine Ingredients:
Begin by selecting a medium to large saucepan, which will give you ample space to mix and simmer the ingredients. Add the crushed tomatoes, lemon juice, light brown sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and Southern Comfort (if using) to the pan. Stir these ingredients together until they are thoroughly combined. -
Heat Mixture:
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once the sauce reaches a rolling boil, reduce the heat to low. If you have opted to include any additional ingredients such as hot sauce, smoked paprika, or finely chopped peaches, add them at this stage. -
Simmer:
Partially cover the pan with a lid, leaving a small gap for steam to escape. The easiest way to do this is to place a spoon in the pan and then cover it with the lid. This method allows you to maintain control over the consistency while preventing splatters. Let the sauce simmer gently for 30 to 40 minutes. During this time, stir the sauce occasionally to ensure even cooking and to monitor its consistency. As the sauce simmers, it will reduce and thicken. -
Cool and Store:
Once the sauce has reduced to your desired thickness, remove the pan from the heat. Allow the sauce to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer the barbecue sauce to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to one month. This sauce yields approximately 4 cups, making it perfect for large gatherings or as a versatile condiment to have on hand for various dishes.
Tips:
- For a thicker sauce: If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can reduce the amount of lemon juice or Southern Comfort slightly. This will give the sauce a richer texture without compromising its flavor.
- For a spicier kick: Adjust the amount of hot sauce to your taste preference. Adding extra hot sauce will give the barbecue sauce a more pronounced heat level, while reducing it will keep things milder.
- For a smoky touch: Incorporating smoked paprika into the sauce can enhance its depth and provide a delightful smoky flavor that complements the peaches beautifully.
Enjoy your homemade Peach of the Old South Barbecue Sauce as a delicious addition to grilled meats, vegetables, or as a unique flavor booster for various recipes. This sauce not only offers a taste of Southern tradition but also allows you to impress your guests with a homemade touch!
