Heating Up the Sweet Sauce

I think the perfect flavor combination is a touch of heat added to something sweet.  When I have pork or chicken - I really love to kick up the taste with a sauce of honey and chipotle.  It's such an easy sauce to make.  It's one of those few things that matches perfectly with a variety of foods - think of it like a little black dress that adds versitility in a wardrobe.  I like it as a condiment for meats but it really does a great double as a salad dressing. 

What you need:
1/2 Cup: Honey (I like to buy local)
1/3 Cup: Ketchup
1 Tablespoon + 1 Teaspoon: White Vinegar
1 Tablespoon: Chipotle Powder
1/2 Teaspoon: Salt
1/3 Cup: Water

Putting it Together:
Combine all of above in a saucepan and bring to a boil, slowly.  Simmer for a few minutes.  Let Cool before putting into an airtight container.  Store in the fridge between uses. 









When I'm finishing a larger bottle of honey, I use it as my storage container for this sauce.  Cut the top off a water bottle and use it as a funnel so you don't loose a single drop.

Here's a tip for easier cleaning of measuring cups when using sticky items.  Give your measurer a quick, light mist with cooking spray.  Your honey will slide right out and the cup cleans up quickly.

This sauce is easily adapted to your taste:

Want more or less spice? Adjust the chipolte powder sparingly. 

Want a sweeter sauce?  Bump up the amount of honey. 

Want your sauce tangier?  Add just a bit more vinegar.