Pineapple BBQ Sauce- Trader Joe's Copycat Recipe

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!

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.

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 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.

What equipment do I need to make pineapple bbq sauce?

You will need an immersion blender if you have one, if not, a blender used for smoothies, and that type of thing works just as well. You will also need a small saucepan.

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.

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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