Pineapple BBQ Sauce- Trader Joe's Copycat Recipe

This Pineapple BBQ Sauce-Trader Joe's Copycat Recipe will elevate your grilling season and take it to the next level.

Summer is here, and what better way to celebrate than firing up the grill and making some delicious meats? But wait, what's a barbecue without a tangy and smoky barbecue sauce to go with it? If you're tired of the same old store-bought BBQ sauce and looking to take your grilling game to the next level, try making your own Pineapple BBQ Sauce.

In this blog post, we'll show you how to make a homemade Pineapple BBQ Sauce that's packed with fresh pineapple and natural ingredients. We'll also share some ideas on what to eat with Pineapple BBQ Sauce, how to store it, and the key equipment you'll need.

This is the barbeque sauce you didn't know you needed in your life! If you've ever had Trader Joe's organic sweet & spicy pineapple bbq sauce and loved it I think you'll agree that this comes pretty close! Part of the beauty of making something like this is that there really is no right or wrong way to make it. I'm giving you the baseline but if you want more spice, go for it! If you like your pineapple bbq sauce a little sweeter or with a bit more tang, you can do that also!

This Pineapple BBQ Sauce recipe is quick and easy to make, using simple ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Here's what you'll need:

Ingredients

• Pineapple juice concentrate-intensifies the pineapple flavor
• Pineapple chunks-delivers even more pineapple flavor
• Molasses- helps to sweeten and thicken the bbq sauce
• Tomato paste- adds a bit of tanginess
• Vinegar- balances all of the flavors
• Garlic powder-adds intensity and a slight hint of garlic flavor
• Chili powder- used to add more flavor and pungency
• White pepper- milder and less complex than black pepper
• Onion powder- adds added flavor to the sauce
• Black pepper- helps bring out the other flavors
• Salt- helps bring out the flavors in the sauce and bind the other ingredients together

Why is this pineapple bbq sauce a Trader Joe's copycat recipe?

This bbq sauce is pretty similar but does have a bit less spice. (I'm not one for a lot of spice and the TJ's version is almost over the edge for me). I'll explain how you can add even more heat below if it's what you desire! This recipe has nearly all of the ingredients as the original minus the habanero powder. I excluded this ingredient specifically because of the spice element.

Key Equipment Needed

To make this Pineapple BBQ Sauce recipe, you'll need a few key pieces of equipment:

1. Medium pot: For cooking the sauce.
2. Immersion blender: To blend the mixture until smooth.
3. Mason jars or airtight containers: For storing the sauce.

How to make Sweet & Spicy Pineapple BBQ Sauce

If the process of creating your own barbeque sauce intimidates you, have no fear! I had the exact same thoughts before I actually did it. As with any recipe, having the ingredients prepped and ready to go beforehand is a huge time saver. Simply put, all you will need to do is combine all of the ingredients into a saucepan, give them a good mix, and simmer for about 15 minutes, (this will help the flavors meld together), and blend it all up once it has cooled. That's it! It really is that simple.

What to eat with Sweet & Spicy BBQ Sauce

This Pineapple BBQ Sauce recipe is perfect for chicken, pork ribs, pork chops, or even as a dipping sauce for egg rolls. The sweet fruitiness of the pineapple combined with the tangy and smoky flavors of the sauce makes it the perfect combination for your favorite meats. Here are a few more ideas:

1. Grilling chicken: Brush the Pineapple BBQ Sauce on juicy chicken breasts or thighs while grilling. The sauce will caramelize and create a delicious glaze on the chicken.
2. Burgers: Top your favorite burger with Pineapple BBQ Sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
3. Hawaiian BBQ Sauce: Use Pineapple BBQ Sauce as a base for a Hawaiian BBQ Sauce by adding soy sauce, ginger, and a hint of spice.
4. Slow-cooker chicken recipe: Use Pineapple BBQ Sauce as a marinade for slow-cooker chicken for a juicy and flavorful dish.

This would pair exceptionally well with..anything! Use as desired on any meat, seafood, or vegetable!  It cooks well on a grill, in a pan, or in the oven. Alternatively, it can be brushed on as well. 

Substitutions

There are a few substitutions you can use for this sweet & spicy pineapple sauce; pineapple juice CONCENTRATE is probably the most common item that can be substituted. You can also use frozen (defrosted) pineapple chunks. If you don't have molasses, you can use various substitutes; brown sugar and corn syrup (not high fructose) are the most favorable because they won't significantly change the flavor of the bbq sauce. You can also use maple syrup or honey as a substitute but keep in mind that the flavors of honey and maple are completely different within themselves so if used as a substitute for this bbq sauce, it will completely change the taste and results.

Variations

If you love spicy foods and find that you need a little more heat to this recipe, add some habanero powder or a little hot sauce with habanero and that will do the trick! When adjusting recipes, a best practice is to taste as you go; this way, you'll be able to ensure that the flavors you set out to produce still end up working out for you in the end.

How to Store Pineapple BBQ Sauce

Once you've made your homemade Pineapple BBQ Sauce, you'll want to store it properly to ensure it stays fresh. Here are some tips:

1. Store the sauce in an airtight container or mason jar.
2. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze it for up to 3 months.
3. Write the recipe card and attach it to the container for future reference.

Making your own Pineapple BBQ Sauce is easy and can take your grilling season to the next level. This homemade BBQ sauce is packed with delicious flavors and natural ingredients, making it a healthier and tastier alternative to store-bought options. Using fresh pineapple and pineapple juice gives this sauce a sweet and fruity flavor that's perfect for summer grilling. With this recipe, you can also customize the sauce to your liking by adjusting the level of heat or sweetness.

So, next time you're grilling your favorite meats, try making your own Pineapple BBQ Sauce and impress your guests with this delicious and unique condiment. Don't forget to store any leftovers properly, and you'll have your own homemade BBQ sauce ready to use whenever you want.

If you make this recipe please rate and review it on the recipe card below. I would love for you to tag me on Instagram @belovedplate https://www.instagram.com/belovedplate/

ANOTHER TRADER JOE'S COPYCAT RECIPE!

Chili-Garlic Onion Crunch-Trader Joe's Copycat Recipe

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