Let me start this post by saying I’m in no way a BBQ sauce connoisseur! I know there is a world of barbecue sauces out there and I still have a lot to explore. But, so far, I can confidently say this is the best BBQ sauce I have ever tasted. And it’s 100% made by moi! Not that that’s a huge feat, on the contrary. It takes less than 15 minutes on the stove and no special skills required. Easy is an understatement! That being said, I always feel accomplished when I make something “from scratch”. So let me toot my own horn and feel proud about this recipe, even though it can be made by virtually anyone with access to a pot and a stove. After all, it’s not everyday that you come across a BBQ sauce made with guava! If you love a sauce that is sweet, but smoky, tangy, but rich, and even a little bit spicy, this sauce is for you!
Ingredients for Guava BBQ Sauce
These are the ingredients you will need to make this homemade barbecue sauce:
Guava paste Ketchup Vinegar – I used apple cider vinegar, but you can use whatever kind you prefer. Dijon mustard Worcestershire sauce Smoked paprika Garlic Powder Salt Pepper Cayenne (optional, but highly recommended)
What is Guava paste?
Guava paste (or goiabada, in Portuguese) is a popular Latin ingredient, made by cooking red guavas and sugar until thickened. It can be sold/served as a spreadable jam, or in a sliceable, stiff and dense version, almost like fruit leather. I find that the latter is more common in the United States. I usually find it at the hispanic aisle of my grocery store, but you can also order it online! In Brazil, goiabada is often used to make desserts or eaten plain, with cheese. However, although not common in Brazilian cuisine, I find that it makes a great ingredient in savory dishes, especially when paired with chicken or pork.
How to make Homemade Guava BBQ Sauce
It’s super easy! 10 to 15 minutes and a saucepan is all you’ll need. The sauce is also very customizable, so feel free to adjust the ingredients according to your preferences! You can even double or triple the recipe if you need a large batch.
How long will homemade BBQ sauce last?
This sauce keeps well in the fridge, in an airtight container, for up to a week.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes! In fact, the sauce tastes even better after resting overnight in the fridge. Just make sure to cool it completely before refrigerating!
Can I freeze BBQ sauce?
Absolutely! You can freeze it for up to 3 months. The best and safest way to thaw it is overnight in the fridge.
What can I make with Guava BBQ sauce?
So many things! Here are a few suggestions:
BBQ Pulled Chicken or Pulled Pork BBQ Chicken Pizza BBQ Chicken Wings BBQ Meatballs As a sauce for burgers, sandwiches, quesadillas. Brushed on ribs, grilled meat or vegetables. As a dip for fries, onion rings, tater tots.
Other guava recipes:
Romeo and Juliet Bites (Brazilian Cheese Bread with Guava)Tapioca Pudding with Guava SauceGuava BBQ Pulled Chicken
Cooking time will vary depending on the preferred consistency. I like mine thick, so it takes the whole 15 minutes to reduce. A thinner sauce will take less.For a spicier sauce, increase the amount of cayenne. Or omit for a mild version.The flavors deepen as the sauce rests in the fridge, so I recommend making it at least one day ahead, if you can!The BBQ sauce will keep in the fridge for up to 1 week or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Smoked Paprika Guava Paste Saucepan
