Plum Barbeque Sauce

Barbeque sauce is a great template for substitutions. Ingredients like vinegars, chilis, sweeteners, and even plums can be substituted based on seasonal availability, preferences, or what you have on hand. Don’t be afraid to experiment! Just try to maintain a similar balance of sweet to sour.

Makes 1 quart

INGREDIENTS

2 yellow onions, thinly sliced

1 tablespoon neutral oil

6 garlic cloves, smashed

¾ cup apple cider vinegar

¾ cup brown sugar 

¼ cup tomato paste

2 tablespoons white soy sauce (sub shio koji or tamari) 

4 medium plums

2 tablespoons chipotle chiles in adobo

2 dried ancho chiles, seeded

METHOD

Caramelize the onions. Heat the oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the onions and cook for 15-20 minutes, until caramelized. Add the garlic and cook for a few minutes more, until soft.

Blend. Transfer the onions and garlic to a blender, along with the remaining ingredients. Blend until very smooth. Transfer back to the pot. (Better yet, just add everything to the pot and use an immersion blender.)

Simmer down. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook down gently until it reaches your desired consistency. Taste for salt and adjust.