Cherry Balsamic Barbecue Sauce (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Sauce base

01 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
02 - 1 medium sweet onion, diced
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 2 cups dark sweet cherries, pitted and stems removed
05 - 1 cup ketchup
06 - 2/3 cup brown sugar
07 - 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
08 - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
09 - 2 teaspoons ground mustard
10 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

# Instructions:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and sauté for approximately 5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and continue to sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
02 - Add cherries, ketchup, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, ground mustard, and black pepper into the saucepan. Stir well to combine all components.
03 - Increase heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to medium-low and simmer gently for 10 minutes.
04 - Transfer the mixture to a stand blender or food processor, or use an immersion blender in the saucepan. Blend until the sauce is completely smooth.
05 - Return the puréed sauce to the pan, bring to a gentle simmer, and cook for an additional 10 minutes until thickened to desired consistency.

# Notes:

01 - For a smoky touch, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika during simmering.