Fig-Habanero BBQ Sauce

It's fig season, time to make Fig-Habanero BBQ Sauce. This sauce will add that special something to any grilling event. The original recipe can be found at The Beer Store. As they say beer makes everything better ~.^

[CAUTION: Remember to ALWAYS wear latex or vinyl gloves and protective goggles. The oil from the peppers can burn your skin. Don't touch hands, nose, face when handling peppers.]

Ingredients:

1 TBSP of olive oil

1/2 medium onion coarsely chopped

1 small habanero pepper ( to reduce heat use 1/2 habanero pepper)

1/2 cup cider vinegar

1/4 cup molasses or honey or brown sugar (we used brown sugar)

2 cups fresh figs chopped and stemmed

1 bottle (12 ounces each) of gluten-free beer (we used RedBridge)

* optional * Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Directions:

1) Prep figs, onion and habanero pepper [ Remember to wear gloves & goggles ^^]

2) Warm 1 TBSP of grapeseed oil over med-high heat in large saucepan.

3) Add onion and habanero pepper. Cook for about 6 minutes.

4) Add vinegar and brown sugar. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally. Add the figs while stirring.

5) Return to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.

6) Cook for 10 minutes. Add the beer, and bring to a boil.

7) Then simmer for 15 minutes. *optional* Season with salt and pepper.

8) Puree the mixture using a handheld blender, standing blender, or food processor.

* To adjust the consistency by adding a little water or boiling to reduce the mixture
** To adjust the flavor to your liking- add salt, pepper, habanero peppers, vinegar, or brown sugar.

Now, fire up that grill! Get ready to use your Fig Habanero BBQ sauce! Tailgating season is just around the corner ^^

This post is dedicated to Nina Paley.