Rhubarb & Tarragon BBQ Sauce
This Rhubarb & Tarragon Barbecue Sauce is a vibrant, refined sugar-free twist on classic BBQ sauce. Tart rhubarb and sweet Medjool dates blend with maple syrup, fresh tarragon, and aromatic spices to create a tangy, herbaceous condiment.
Not only does rhubarb add a unique flavor, but it has a wealth of health benefits. also rich in vitamin K, fiber, and antioxidants, which support bone health, aid digestion, and help protect against inflammation and chronic disease.
Perfect for grilled chicken, pork, or vegetables, this healthy homemade sauce delivers bold flavor and a touch of natural sweetness-ideal for anyone seeking a nutritious, seasonal upgrade to their barbecue favorites.
Rhubarb & Tarragon BBQ Sauce
Yield: about 2 1/2 cups
Prep time: 5 MinCook time: 25 MinTotal time: 30 Min
Ingredients
- 1/2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup finely diced onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups rhubarb, diced
- 1/2 cup water
- 4-5 Medjool dates, pitted and chopped (about 1/3 cup)
- 1 tbsp molasses
- 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 4 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp cider vinegar
- 1/2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
- 2 tsp fresh tarragon, finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Soak chopped dates in hot water for 10 minutes.
- In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion until soft (3 minutes), then add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
- Add rhubarb, soaked dates with their water. Cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in molasses, maple syrup, tomato paste, vinegar, mustard, Worcestershire, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using). Simmer uncovered 15–20 minutes, until thickened.
- Remove from heat, stir in tarragon, and blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning.