Aronia BBQ Sauce
β¨ From the Orchard
At Deeβs Nutz and Berries in Brodhead, WI, we love a good sauce that bites backβand this Aronia BBQ Sauce, nicknamed The Backyard Sizzler, brings exactly that kind of energy to your table. Aronia berries, also known as chokeberries, might be small, but they deliver massive flavor and nutrition. Known for their high antioxidant content and tart edge, these berries are the perfect match for smoky, tangy, finger-licking BBQ.
While most BBQ sauces lean heavily on tomato and sugar, we turn up the flavor with aroniaβs deep berry notes, a splash of apple cider vinegar, and the perfect blend of spices. Whether youβre basting ribs, slathering pulled pork, or dipping grilled tofu skewers, this sauce delivers rich color and bold bite with every drizzle.
Our farm opens to the public in 2028, and weβre beyond excited to bring this sauceβand the berries behind itβstraight from our orchard to your plate. Want to explore more about aroniaβs rising star status in culinary and wellness circles? Donβt miss this University of Maryland Extension resource on Aronia berries. Youβll also find more inspiration on our Aronia U-Pick and Recipes page.
The Backyard Sizzler: Aronia BBQ Sauce
π½οΈ Aronia BBQ Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup aronia berries (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar or maple syrup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne (optional, for heat)
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup water
π₯£ Aronia BBQ Sauce Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine aronia berries and water. Simmer for 10 minutes, softening the berries.
- Mash gently, then strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove skins (optional).
- Return juice to the pan. Stir in ketchup, vinegar, sugar, Worcestershire, and spices.
- Simmer over low heat for 15β20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and glossy.
- Taste and adjust sweetness, heat, or acidity as desired.
- Let cool slightly. Store in a clean jar in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
π From the Orchard Tip
- π₯ Brush on grilled chicken or ribs during the last few minutes for a sticky, flavorful crust
- π₯ͺ Slather onto pulled pork sandwiches or brisket wraps
- π½ Drizzle over roasted corn or grilled veggies for a berry-rich twist
- π Mix into mayo for a next-level burger spread
- π§ Freeze in small jars or ice cube trays for BBQ-ready portions anytime
- πΆοΈ Want it smoky? Add a dash of liquid smoke or chipotle powder
More to Savor from the Orchard
- Education & Research
- Harvest & Farm Life
- Preserving & Storage
- Recipes
- Sustainable Farm Living
- Wellness & Herbal Remedies
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