Jerk BBQ Sauce Recipe – Fiery, Sweet, and Packed with Caribbean Flavor

Jerk BBQ Sauce Recipe
Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 20 mins
Total Time 30 mins
Cuisine:
Difficulty: Beginner
Cooking Temp: 325  F
Servings: 4
Estimated Cost: $  4
Calories: 30
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year
Description

This jerk BBQ sauce recipe blends the bold spices of traditional Jamaican jerk seasoning with the rich, molasses-kissed depth of Southern-style BBQ sauce. It’s a thick, glossy, flavor-packed condiment that’s equally good brushed onto meat or served as a dipping sauce.

Ingredients
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (or habanero)
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tbsp allspice
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2/ tsp ground cloves
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup molasses or brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup water (adjust for desired thickness)
Instructions
  1. 1
    In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the garlic, ginger, and chopped Scotch bonnet pepper, and cook for another minute, allowing the fragrance to develop.
  2. 2
    Sprinkle in allspice, cinnamon, cloves, thyme, smoked paprika, and a touch of salt and pepper. Stir for about 30 seconds, toasting the spices and unlocking their aroma.
  3. 3
    Pour in ketchup, molasses (or brown sugar), soy sauce, vinegar, lime juice, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to combine. Add water to thin the sauce slightly, depending on your desired consistency.
  4. 4
    Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Let it cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld.
  5. 5
    For a silky texture, let the sauce cool slightly and then blend it using an immersion blender or regular blender until smooth.
  6. 6
    Let the sauce cool to room temperature, then transfer it to a jar or bottle. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 30kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 1g2%
Sodium 150mg7%
Total Carbohydrate 5g2%
Sugars 4g
Protein 0.5g1%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.