Elevate your grilling game with this homemade Mango BBQ Sauce Recipe, blending the tropical sweetness of ripe mangoes with the smoky, tangy flavors of traditional barbecue sauce.
Perfect for slathering on chicken, ribs, or vegetables, this sauce adds a unique twist to your summer cookouts. Its sweet and tangy flavor complements the smoky char of these dishes.
For a less spicy version, simply reduce or omit the chili peppers or hot sauce, or swap them out for a milder option like bell peppers or paprika.
To make the Mango BBQ Sauce Recipe ahead of time for a party or BBQ, cook it, then cool and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
It actually gets better as the flavors meld! I’ve also used this sauce on grilled burgers, and the sweetness adds a great contrast to the savory beef.
As for mangoes, I prefer Ataulfo mangoes they’re sweeter and smoother than other varieties. I couldn’t live without my immersion blender for blending sauces like this.
And yes, you can can this Mango BBQ Sauce Recipe for longer storage if you follow safe canning methods!
How To Prepare Mango BBQ Sauce Recipe?
Recipe Details
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Course: Sauce/Dip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cuisine: Fusion (BBQ + Tropical)
- Calories: Approximately 90 calories per 2 tbsp (varies based on specific ingredients used)
- Yield: 2 cups of sauce
Kitchen Utensils
- Knife and cutting board
- Medium saucepan or skillet
- Spoon or whisk for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Blender or immersion blender (optional)
Ingredients
- 1 large ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or any oil of your choice)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup + 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 15 oz. can of tomato sauce
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
Instructions
1. Prepare the Mango: Peel and dice the ripe mango into small pieces.
2. Cook the Base: Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3–5 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
3. Add the Mango: Stir in the diced mango and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the mango to soften and release its juices.
4. Combine Other Ingredients: Add the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, tomato sauce, and chili powder. Stir to combine everything thoroughly.
5. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken as it cooks and the flavors will meld together.
6. Blend for Smoothness (Optional): For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender directly in the pan, or transfer the mixture to a regular blender. Blend until the sauce reaches your desired texture.
7. Taste & Adjust: Taste your sauce and adjust the seasonings if necessary. You can add more sugar for sweetness, vinegar for tanginess, or chili powder for extra heat.
8. Cool & Store: Let the sauce cool before using it on grilled meats, vegetables, or as a dipping sauce. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Special Note
This Mango BBQ Sauce Recipe is incredibly versatile. If you’re looking to make a batch for a party or a cookout, I recommend doubling the recipe.
You can store any leftovers in an airtight jar or bottle in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. The sauce will continue to develop its flavor the longer it sits, so make it ahead of time if you’re prepping for an event.
Additionally, if you want to make this recipe vegan or vegetarian, simply swap the honey for maple syrup or agave syrup. The sweetness and depth of flavor will remain, but the sauce will be entirely plant-based!
Variations
1. Mango Pineapple BBQ Sauce: Combine equal parts of mango and pineapple for a tropical twist.
2. Spicy Mango BBQ Sauce: Incorporate fresh chili peppers or cayenne pepper for added heat.
3. Smoky Chipotle Mango BBQ Sauce: Add chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky and spicy flavor.
4. Mango Bourbon BBQ Sauce: Stir in a splash of bourbon during the simmering process for depth and complexity.
5. Mango Ginger BBQ Sauce: Grate fresh ginger into the sauce for a zesty and aromatic profile.
How To Make Mango Bbq Sauce Recipe Tastier?
If you’re looking to make your Mango BBQ Sauce Recipe even tastier, there are a few ways to take it to the next level! Here are some simple ideas to enhance its flavor:
1. Boost the Sweetness & Depth: Add honey or maple syrup for a richer, more complex sweetness that balances the tangy vinegar.
2. Introduce a Smoky Kick: Increase the smoked paprika or even add a bit of chipotle powder for a smoky and slightly spicy flavor. You could also try smoked salt for that deep, charred vibe.
3. Amp Up the Spice: If you love heat, add fresh chilies like jalapeños or Thai bird’s eye chili, or a dash of cayenne pepper for extra zing.
4. Citrus Zest: A little lime zest or orange juice can brighten up the sauce and give it a fresh, zesty twist that complements the mango.
5. Herbs for Freshness: Try adding fresh cilantro or mint toward the end of cooking for a refreshing herbal note that pairs wonderfully with the tropical mango.
My Tips For Making Mango BBQ Sauce
I’m so excited to share my tips for making Mango BBQ Sauce Recipe! After trying a few variations, I’ve learned some key tricks to ensure it comes out perfectly every time. Here are my top tips:
1. The riper the mango, the sweeter and juicier your sauce will be. Make sure your mangoes are soft to the touch for the best flavor!
2. For a silky texture, don’t skip the blending step. You want the mangoes and other ingredients to come together seamlessly. An immersion blender is my go-to!
3. If the sauce is too sweet, add a bit more vinegar to cut through it. If it’s too tangy, adjust with more sugar or honey. Keep tasting as you go to get the perfect balance.
4. Add heat gradually! It’s easier to add more chili than to tone it down, so start with a little and adjust to your spice level.
5. Let the sauce simmer for at least 15-20 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together and deepens the overall taste. Don’t rush it!
How Do You Preserve Mango BBQ Sauce?
To preserve my Mango BBQ Sauce Recipe, I make sure to let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container or jar. I usually keep it in the fridge, where it can last for about 1-2 weeks.
If I want to keep it longer, I’ll freeze some portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. When I’m ready to use it, I just thaw it in the fridge overnight and give it a good stir before serving.
This way, I always have a batch on hand for grilling or adding a tropical twist to my meals!
(FAQs) about Mango BBQ Sauce
How long can I store Mango BBQ Sauce?
You can store Mango BBQ Sauce in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Can I make Mango BBQ Sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making the sauce ahead of time allows the flavors to meld together even more. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?
Yes! You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar depending on your taste preferences. You could also use honey or maple syrup as a substitute.
Can I use frozen mangoes instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen mangoes work perfectly fine. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before using them in the recipe.
What dishes can I use Mango BBQ Sauce on?
This sauce is super versatile! It’s great on grilled chicken, ribs, burgers, or even as a topping for pizza, roasted veggies, or tacos.
Conclusion
This Mango BBQ Sauce Recipe is one of those recipes that brings a unique twist to your grilling routine.
The combination of ripe mango and BBQ flavors creates a tangy, sweet, and savory sauce that pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, pork, beef, and even tofu or roasted vegetables.
Mango BBQ Sauce Recipe easy, fun, and quick recipe that will impress your guests and elevate your meals.
I love making this sauce during the summer when mangoes are in season, but it’s delicious all year round. Try it next time you’re looking to spice up your BBQ game you won’t be disappointed!
Happy grilling!
More Amazing BBQ Sauce Recipes
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Cheerwine BBQ Sauce Recipe – Easy & Best
Homemade BBQ Sauce For Burgers
Apricot BBQ Sauce Recipe (Easy Homemade)
Homemade Spicy Sweet BBQ Sauce Recipe
Mango BBQ Sauce Recipe
Equipment
- Knife and cutting board
- Medium saucepan or skillet
- Spoon or whisk for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Blender or immersion blender (optional)
Ingredients
- 1 large ripe mango peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or any oil of your choice
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup + 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 15 oz. can of tomato sauce
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
Instructions
- Prepare the Mango: Peel and dice the ripe mango into small pieces.
- Cook the Base: Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3–5 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
- Add the Mango: Stir in the diced mango and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the mango to soften and release its juices.
- Combine Other Ingredients: Add the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, tomato sauce, and chili powder. Stir to combine everything thoroughly.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken as it cooks and the flavors will meld together.
- Blend for Smoothness (Optional): For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender directly in the pan, or transfer the mixture to a regular blender. Blend until the sauce reaches your desired texture.
- Taste & Adjust: Taste your sauce and adjust the seasonings if necessary. You can add more sugar for sweetness, vinegar for tanginess, or chili powder for extra heat.
- Cool & Store: Let the sauce cool before using it on grilled meats, vegetables, or as a dipping sauce. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.