Assyrian Spiced Barbecue Sauce

Ingredients

In this Assyrian adaptation of the original American barbecue sauce, we incorporate traditional Assyrian spices to add a unique twist. The original recipe is enhanced with flavors like cumin, coriander, and paprika, which are commonly used in Assyrian cuisine. These spices infuse the sauce with a distinct Assyrian flair, making it a perfect accompaniment to Assyrian grilled dishes. We alse have the original recipe for Barbecue Sauce, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (470ml) tomato sauce 2 cups (470ml) tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup (120ml) pomegranate molasses 1/2 cup (120ml) pomegranate molasses
• 1/4 cup (60ml) apple cider vinegar 1/4 cup (60ml) apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) lemon juice 2 tablespoons (30ml) lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) Worcestershire sauce 2 tablespoons (30ml) Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) soy sauce 1 tablespoon (15ml) soy sauce
• 1/4 cup (60g) brown sugar 1/4 cup (60g) brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 0g, 0g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 25g
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a saucepan, combine the tomato sauce, pomegranate molasses, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. 2.
   Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer.
3. 3.
   Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
4. 4.
   Remove the sauce from heat and let it cool before using.
5. 5.
   Store the Assyrian Spiced Barbecue Sauce in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pomegranate molasses — If you can't find pomegranate molasses, you can make your own by simmering pomegranate juice until it reduces and thickens to a syrupy consistency.
• Worcestershire sauce — Look for a vegetarian or fish-free Worcestershire sauce if you prefer to avoid anchovies.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce.
• Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar according to your taste preferences.
• Marinate your meats in the sauce for a few hours before grilling to enhance the flavors.

Serving advice

Serve the Assyrian Spiced Barbecue Sauce as a dipping sauce alongside grilled meats, kebabs, or roasted vegetables. It also works wonderfully as a glaze for ribs or chicken wings.

Presentation advice

Transfer the sauce to a decorative jar or bowl and garnish with a sprinkle of paprika or a few fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. This will add a touch of elegance to your presentation.