Bacon and Maple Barbecue Sauce

FOR TRADITIONAL BARBECUE, CONTEMPORARY SMOKED FOOD, & GRILLED DISHES

Bacon and maple are the operative flavors here, but it’s the undertones of vanilla extract and bourbon that make this sauce far from ordinary. It’s a fine finish for “barbecued” chicken, whether cooked by smoke or over a grill fire.

The Bacon and Maple Barbecue Sauce is a delightful condiment that infuses the rich and smoky essence of bacon with the natural sweetness of maple syrup, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that elevates a wide range of dishes, especially poultry. This sauce effortlessly combines savory, sweet, and tangy elements to create a memorable and versatile accompaniment.

At its heart, this sauce begins with the foundation of bacon drippings, which lend a smoky and savory depth that serves as a perfect base for the other ingredients. The addition of minced onion adds both texture and a subtle aromatic note, enhancing the overall complexity of the sauce. As the onion softens and becomes lightly caramelized in the bacon drippings, it sets the stage for the symphony of flavors to follow.

The stars of this sauce are undoubtedly pure maple syrup and Dijon mustard. The maple syrup contributes a natural and rich sweetness, perfectly balanced by the tanginess of Dijon mustard. These two ingredients work together to create a harmonious contrast that awakens the taste buds with every bite. The maple syrup, in particular, adds a warm and comforting sweetness that complements the smoky undertones of the bacon.

Other supporting characters, such as ketchup, bourbon (or whiskey), Worcestershire sauce, and a hint of pure vanilla extract, join the ensemble to contribute their unique flavors to the mix. The ketchup adds a familiar tanginess, while the bourbon brings a touch of complexity and depth, imparting a distinct richness to the sauce. The Worcestershire sauce contributes a subtle umami note that enhances the overall flavor profile. A dash of pure vanilla extract might seem unconventional, but it adds a surprising layer of aromatic sweetness that rounds out the sauce in a delightful way.

As the sauce simmers gently on the stovetop, the flavors meld and develop, creating a well-balanced and cohesive taste that’s perfect for drizzling over poultry dishes. Whether brushed onto grilled chicken, turkey, or even duck, the Bacon and Maple Barbecue Sauce elevates the ordinary to the extraordinary, offering a symphony of flavors that dance on the palate. Its versatility knows no bounds, making it a welcome addition to your culinary repertoire. Stored in the refrigerator, this sauce can continue to delight your taste buds for up to two weeks, ensuring you have a touch of indulgence on hand whenever you need it.

MAKES: ABOUT 1¼ CUPS

INGREDIENTS:

• • 3 tablespoons bacon drippings
  • 1 small onion, minced
  • ⅓ cup pure maple syrup
  • ⅓ cup Dijon mustard
  • ¼ cup water
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons bourbon or other whiskey
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ¼ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. 1. Warm the bacon drippings in a large saucepan over medium heat.
   2. Stir in the minced onion and cook until softened and lightly colored, approximately 7 minutes.
   3. Add the pure maple syrup, Dijon mustard, water, ketchup, bourbon, Worcestershire sauce, and pure vanilla extract to the saucepan.
   4. Bring the mixture to a boil.
   5. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cook for about 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
   6. Once the sauce has reached the desired consistency and flavor, remove it from the heat.
   7. Serve the Maple-Bourbon BBQ Sauce warm or at room temperature, either on or alongside poultry dishes.
   8. Any unused sauce can be stored in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to approximately 2 weeks.