ChatGPT Smoked Apple Bourbon BBQ Sauce

Here’s a delicious Smoked Apple Bourbon BBQ Sauce recipe that brings together sweet apples, smoky flavors, and a rich bourbon kick:

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Ingredients

• 2 cups apple cider (or fresh apple juice)
• 1 cup ketchup
• ½ cup bourbon
• ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 medium apple (peeled, grated or finely chopped)
• 1 medium onion (finely diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 2 tbsp butter

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Instructions

1. Prepare your smoker or grill:

   • Set up for indirect heat at around 225°F (107°C) with fruitwood (apple or cherry wood is best for a mild smoke).

2. Cook the aromatics:

   • In a cast-iron skillet or saucepan (that can go on the smoker), melt butter.
   • Add onion and apple, cook until softened (about 5–7 minutes).
   • Stir in garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes.

3. Combine ingredients:

   • Stir in ketchup, apple cider, bourbon, brown sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne.
   • Mix well and bring to a gentle simmer.

4. Smoke and reduce:

   • Place the pan in the smoker uncovered and let it smoke for 1–2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and takes on a rich smoky flavor.
   • If it’s too thick, add a splash of apple cider to thin.

5. Finish and blend (optional):

   • For a smoother sauce, blend with an immersion blender or regular blender.
   • Taste and adjust sweetness, salt, or spice.

6. Store:

   • Let cool and pour into a glass jar. It will keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for later use.

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Serving Ideas

• Brush onto smoked ribs, chicken, or pork shoulder in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Use as a dipping sauce for pulled pork sandwiches or smoked sausages.

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