Remarkable and Life-Changing BBQ Sauce Substitutes Approved by Experts

By Avi Green July 10, 2024

Barbecue sauce is a staple condiment for grilling enthusiasts, but what happens when you run out or simply want to try something different? You're in luck because we've compiled an exclusive and unmissable guide on what can I substitute for BBQ sauce. Whether you're preparing juicy ribs, chicken wings, or grilled vegetables, these alternatives will add a new dimension to your culinary adventures.

Why Look for Substitutes?

The need for BBQ sauce substitutes can arise for many reasons. Perhaps you're out of your favorite brand and don't have the ingredients to make a homemade version. Maybe you're catering to dietary restrictions, or you're simply curious about different flavors. Whatever your reason, having a selection of replacements will keep your meals flavorful and diverse.

1. Teriyaki Sauce

If you're looking for a sweet and savory alternative, teriyaki sauce is a terrific choice. With its rich, umami flavor and hints of ginger and garlic, it offers a unique twist to your grilled dishes. It's particularly delightful for chicken and beef.

How to Use Teriyaki Sauce

Brush it onto your meat in the final stages of grilling, or use it as a marinade before you start cooking. Be sure to keep the heat at medium to prevent burning the sugars in the sauce.

2. Hoisin Sauce

Hoisin sauce is another superb substitute for BBQ sauce. Known for its thick consistency and slightly sweet taste, it's perfect for slathering on ribs or chicken. Its complex flavor profile, which includes soybeans, garlic, and chili, adds depth to your dishes.

How to Use Hoisin Sauce

Apply generously as you would with BBQ sauce, and allow it to form a delicious crust when grilled. It's especially good with pork and poultry.

3. Mustard-Based Sauces

For those who prefer a tangy twist, mustard-based sauces offer a delightful alternative. These sauces, often used in South Carolina-style barbecue, provide a sharp, piquant flavor that pairs well with pork and chicken.

How to Make Mustard-Based Sauce

1 cup yellow mustard
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt

Mix all the ingredients in a saucepan and simmer for 10 minutes. Cool before using.

4. Chimichurri Sauce

If you're after a fresher, herbaceous condiment, chimichurri sauce is a tremendous option. Originating from Argentina, this sauce is made with finely chopped parsley, garlic, oregano, olive oil, and vinegar. It's excellent with steak and other beef cuts.

How to Use Chimichurri Sauce

Typically used as a finishing sauce, you can drizzle chimichurri over your grilled meats after they're cooked. It's also fantastic as a marinade.

5. Sweet and Spicy Sriracha Sauce

For those who want a bit of heat, a sweet and spicy Sriracha sauce can be a life-changing substitute. Combining the sweetness of honey or brown sugar with the heat of Sriracha, this sauce is perfect for those who like their BBQ with a kick.

How to Make Sweet and Spicy Sriracha Sauce

1/2 cup Sriracha sauce
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced

Mix all the ingredients and use as a marinade or brushing sauce.

Exploring Fruit-Based Sauces

Fruit-based sauces bring a delightful sweetness and acidity to your grilled dishes. Consider apple, peach, or pineapple-based sauces for your next barbecue.

How to Use Fruit-Based Sauces

Use these sauces as a glaze by applying them during the last few minutes of grilling. They complement pork and poultry beautifully.

6. Worcestershire Sauce Mix

A Worcestershire sauce mix can be a big surprise and an amazing replacement for BBQ sauce. Its complex and savory flavor, derived from vinegar, molasses, anchovies, and tamarind, makes it an umami bomb.

How to Make Worcestershire Sauce Mix

1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon soy sauce

Combine the ingredients and apply to meat before or during grilling.

Unexpected Substitutes

Sometimes the most surprising substitutes come from your pantry. Consider these unique alternatives:

7. Ketchup and Cola Mix

If you're in a pinch, mixing ketchup and cola can yield a surprisingly delightful BBQ sauce substitute.

How to Make Ketchup and Cola Mix

1/2 cup ketchup
1/4 cup cola
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Blend the ingredients and use as you would BBQ sauce.

8. Balsamic Glaze

Balsamic glaze offers a tangy and slightly sweet flavor that can mimic the complexity of BBQ sauce. It's particularly good with grilled vegetables and chicken.

How to Use Balsamic Glaze

Drizzle it over your grilled dishes towards the end of cooking for a delicious finish.

Personal Preference and Experimentation

The beauty of BBQ sauce substitutes lies in their versatility. Don't be afraid to experiment with ingredients you have on hand. Mix and match flavors to create your own signature sauces that will leave your guests delighted and asking for recipes.

Benefits of Homemade Sauces

Creating your own sauces not only allows for customization but also ensures you're aware of what goes into them. This can be particularly important for those managing dietary restrictions or aiming for a healthier lifestyle. Plus, homemade sauces often taste fresher and more vibrant than store-bought options.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the next time you find yourself asking, 'what can I substitute for BBQ sauce', remember that the options are both varied and delicious. From tangy mustard-based sauces to fresh chimichurri, and everything in between, these substitutes offer exciting new ways to elevate your grilling game. So fire up the grill, try something new, and enjoy the tremendous flavors that these alternatives bring to your table.

External Resources

For more grilling tips and delicious recipes, visit this link.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use ketchup as a BBQ sauce substitute?

Yes, ketchup can be used as a base for creating an impromptu BBQ sauce by mixing it with other ingredients like vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar.

2. Is teriyaki sauce vegan?

Most store-bought teriyaki sauces are vegan, but it's always best to check the label. Homemade versions can easily be made vegan by using plant-based ingredients.