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If you’re looking for a BBQ sauce that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and spicy, Mango Habanero BBQ Sauce is your go-to option.

This flavor-packed condiment pairs the tropical sweetness of mango with the fiery kick of habanero peppers, creating a taste sensation that’s perfect for your next cookout.

Looking for more fruity barbecue sauce options? Make sure to try my recipes for cherry chipotle bbq sauce, peach habanero bbq sauce, and cherry bourbon bbq sauce too!

Deep reddish-orange barbecue sauce in a mason jar surrounded by habanero peppers.

The sweetness from the mangoes balances out the intense heat of the habaneros, creating a complex flavor profile. Use as a glaze for grilling meats like chicken, ribs, or wings, as a dipping sauce or added to other dishes for a spicy kick.

The flavor starts with the fruity, tangy notes of mango, followed by a lingering heat that builds from the habaneros, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy a mix of sweet and spicy flavors!

Ingredients

Mango is the star of this sauce, providing a lush sweetness and silky texture. Using ripe mangoes is crucial as they are naturally sweeter, balancing the fiery heat of habanero peppers. Go for the mangoes at the grocery store that give a little when you squeeze them and smell like tropical heaven.
Habanero peppers bring the heat to the table, but don’t let them scare you away. They pack a punch, but you can control the spiciness by adjusting the number of peppers. For a milder sauce, remove the seeds and membranes, or use fewer peppers. Want it extra spicy? Leave some seeds in.
Vinegar is the unsung hero of BBQ sauce. It balances out the sweetness of the mango, giving the sauce a bright tang. I used apple cider vinegar, but you can also try white vinegar if you’re out. Vinegar not only enhances the overall flavor but also helps preserve the sauce, so it stays delicious longer.
Brown sugar enriches the sauce’s depth, and adds a molasses-like richness.
Garlic and sweet onions aren’t just supporting actors; they add a robust depth to the sauce. These aromatics create a savory backbone that complements the sweet and spicy notes. Your sauce wouldn’t be the same without them.
Tomato sauce is a smooth, rich, and slightly tangy sauce made from ripe tomatoes that have been cooked down and puréed. Its smooth texture ensures that the BBQ sauce has a consistent, even coating, making it ideal for basting or glazing.
Fresh ginger, mustard powder, and smoked paprika add additional layers of flavor that tie this sauce together and make it extra special.

Check out the printable recipe card below for the complete recipe and detailed instructions.

Reddish-orange bbq sauce in a mason jar with mango and peppers in the background.

How to make Mango Habanero BBQ Sauce

Peel and dice the mangoes and sweet onion, mince the garlic, and grate the fresh ginger using a microplane/zester.

Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat, then add the diced onion, habanero, and garlic. Sauté until the onion are very soft, about 8 to 10 minutes.

Diced onion, habanero, and garlic in saucepan.

Stir in the remaining ingredients.

Mango Habanero BBQ sauce ingredients in a saucepan.

Bring to a low simmer and cook, uncovered, until mangoes are very soft – about 20 t0 30 minutes.

Remove from heat and puree sauce with an immersion blender until completely combined. If sauce is too thick, add water or mango nectar to thin. If sauce is too thin, return to heat and simmer until thickened to your liking.

Pour sauce into a quart-size mason jar and allow to cool to room temperature. Secure the lid and store in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Mango Habanero BBQ Sauce in a mason jar with peppers and a mango in the background.

And there you have it—a delicious mango habanero BBQ sauce ready to add a zing to your meals!

Expert Tips

You can use either fresh or frozen mangoes. Fresh mangoes offer a slightly brighter flavor, while frozen mangoes are a convenient option, especially when mangoes are out of season.
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, mango habanero BBQ sauce can last up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze the sauce for up to 3 months.
Mango habanero BBQ sauce often tastes better after a day or two as the flavors meld together. Making it ahead of time is a great way to save time when preparing meals.
The most challenging part about making this sauce might be handling the habanero peppers due to their heat. It’s important to wear gloves and avoid touching your face while working with them.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken: Brush it on chicken thighs, breasts, or wings. The sauce caramelizes beautifully on the grill, creating a flavorful crust.
Pork: Think juicy pork chops or tenderloin. The sweet heat of the sauce balances out the richness of the pork.
Ribs: Imagine biting into ribs coated with a layer of sticky, spicy goodness. It’s the perfect topping for fall-off-the-bone ribs.

If you’re looking to spice up your appetizers, mango habanero BBQ sauce makes a great dipping companion.

Wings: Swap out your regular wing sauce for this tangy alternative. Its zingy flavor will have you licking your fingers clean.
Fries: Just when you thought fries couldn’t get any better, try dipping them in this sauce. The contrast of crispy fries with sweet and spicy notes will be a hit.
Veggies: This sauce even works wonders as a dip for grilled or raw veggies. Try it with carrot sticks, celery, or bell peppers for a healthy snack with a punch.

Did you try this recipe? I’d love to see it!
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Enjoy!!