Jezebel Sauce

FOR CONTEMPORARY SMOKED FOOD & GRILLED DISHES

Like pimiento cheese, Jezebel sauce, another traditional Southern condiment, is more than the sum of its parts. The name likely refers to the biblical temptress since the sauce has a wicked kick an eater might not see coming. While there’s nothing finer on a smoked ham, this is also killer good on grilled pork chops or tenderloin. Oh, and save some to serve over a chunk of cream cheese or fresh goat cheese, with crackers.

Jezebel Sauce is a classic Southern condiment that adds a delightful sweet and spicy kick to various dishes, particularly those featuring pork. This versatile sauce is known for its unique combination of flavors, combining the pungent heat of horseradish with the tanginess of mustard and the sweetness of apricot or peach preserves and apple jelly.

The sauce gets its intriguing name from the biblical character Jezebel, known for her captivating and sometimes controversial nature. Similarly, this sauce captivates taste buds with its bold and distinct taste profile. The horseradish and mustard provide a zesty and peppery undertone, while the fruit preserves and jelly add a luscious sweetness, creating a perfect balance of flavors.

Jezebel Sauce is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring only a few simple ingredients and a quick whisking process. The result is a smooth and velvety sauce that can be served as a condiment for roasted, grilled, or smoked pork dishes. Its versatility extends beyond pork, making it an excellent accompaniment for chicken, turkey, or even as a glaze for meatloaf or grilled vegetables.

This beloved sauce is a staple at Southern gatherings, barbecues, and holiday feasts, where it adds a burst of flavor and an element of excitement to the table. Whether used as a dipping sauce, glaze, or topping, Jezebel Sauce is sure to elevate your culinary creations and leave a lasting impression on anyone who tastes it. Its combination of sweet, spicy, and tangy notes is what makes it a timeless and cherished addition to the world of Southern cuisine.

MAKES: ABOUT 2 CUPS

INGREDIENTS:

• ⅓ cup prepared horseradish
• 3 tablespoons dried mustard powder
• 1 to 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
• 10-ounce jar “all-fruit” apricot or peach preserves
• 10-ounce jar apple jelly

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the horseradish, mustard powder, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined.
2. Spoon in the apricot or peach preserves and apple jelly into the bowl with the horseradish mixture.
3. Continue whisking until the sauce is well blended and smooth, ensuring the preserves and jelly are fully incorporated.
4. Serve the sauce at room temperature or chilled. It can be used as a delicious accompaniment on or alongside various cuts of pork.
5. Any unused sauce can be stored in a covered container in the refrigerator for at least a couple of months, making it a convenient and flavorful addition to your pork dishes.

VARIATIONS:

• Spicy Jezebel Sauce: For those who love an extra kick of heat, increase the amount of horseradish and black pepper in the recipe. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to intensify the spiciness.
• Citrus Twist: Add a burst of citrus flavor by incorporating the zest of a lemon or orange into the sauce. The citrusy notes will complement the sweetness and heat of the traditional Jezebel Sauce.
• Ginger Infusion: Enhance the sauce’s complexity by adding freshly grated ginger. This addition provides a warm and aromatic flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.
• Pineapple Jezebel Sauce: Swap the apricot or peach preserves with pineapple preserves for a tropical twist. The fruity sweetness of pineapple complements the tanginess of horseradish and mustard.
• Honey or Maple Syrup: Substitute part of the fruit preserves or apple jelly with honey or maple syrup for a different depth of sweetness. This variation can give the sauce a distinct and delightful taste.
• Apricot-Mango Fusion: Combine apricot and mango preserves to create a tropical fusion of flavors. The mango’s sweetness adds an interesting dimension to the traditional recipe.
• Smoky Chipotle: For a smoky and spicy version, add chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the sauce. The smokiness and heat of chipotle will infuse the sauce with a delightful complexity.
• Fresh Herbs: Incorporate chopped fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or mint to add a burst of freshness to the sauce.