Cleveland BBQ Sauce

My Cleveland BBQ Sauce Adventure: A Taste of Home

Growing up in Cleveland, Ohio, barbecue wasn't just a weekend cookout; it was a deeply ingrained part of our family gatherings. We weren't about the slow-smoked meats of the South; our barbecue was bolder, tangier, and uniquely Cleveland. And that's where our family's secret weapon came into play: our very own BBQ sauce. This wasn't your typical sweet and smoky concoction. This was a sauce that embodied the spirit of Cleveland, a city known for its strong flavors and even stronger sense of pride. Our sauce was built on the foundation of Bertman's brown mustard, a local staple that added a complex, savory depth that no other condiment could match.

Unlike the ubiquitous tomato-based BBQ sauces, this recipe was a testament to our city's culinary heritage. The sharp tang of apple cider vinegar balanced beautifully with the sweetness of pure maple syrup. A hint of heat, provided by chipotle peppers, added a welcome kick, while the aromatic coriander and paprika complemented the rich mustard base. I can still remember my mom meticulously preparing it, the sweet, spicy aroma filling our kitchen. It was a ritual, a love letter to our city, passed down through generations.

The Magic of Bertman's: The heart and soul of this Cleveland BBQ sauce lies in Bertman's brown mustard. This isn’t just any mustard; it's a Cleveland institution, a flavor so iconic, so deeply woven into the fabric of our city's culinary landscape, that it's practically an ingredient in itself. It's that distinctive, slightly sweet and earthy flavor that sets our sauce apart from anything you'll find elsewhere. For those unfamiliar with the magic of Bertman's, think of a richer, more complex take on stone-ground mustard. The flavor is robust and intense, yet retains a pleasant sweetness that harmonizes perfectly with the other ingredients.

Beyond the Bottle: This isn’t simply a recipe; it's a story. A story of family gatherings, laughter echoing around the picnic table, the satisfying crackle of the grill, and the irresistible aroma of the perfectly charred meat, all lovingly coated in our family's secret BBQ sauce. It's a tradition, a symbol of connection, and a taste of home.

A Cleveland Culinary Legacy: More than just a condiment, this BBQ sauce represents a culinary tradition deeply rooted in the heart of Cleveland. It's a sauce that has seen countless family gatherings, backyard barbecues, and spontaneous get-togethers. It’s a reminder of simpler times, a nostalgic comfort food that brings people together. This recipe isn't just about the ingredients; it’s about the memories and traditions they evoke. It’s a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Cleveland, a city known for its bold flavors and its equally bold spirit. And every time I make it, I'm transported back to those happy moments, back to my roots, back to the comfort of home.

Sharing the Flavor: As I’ve grown older and moved away from Cleveland, I've carried this recipe with me, sharing it with friends and family across the country. It’s a way to connect with my past, to share a piece of my heritage, and to introduce others to the unique culinary landscape of my beloved hometown. This sauce is more than just a condiment; it's a taste of home, a symbol of family, and a reminder of the joy of sharing good food with loved ones. So go ahead, make a batch, and let the flavors transport you to a simpler, more delicious time. Because sometimes, the most memorable meals are the ones filled with love, laughter, and the taste of home.

Beyond the Recipe: A Cleveland Story

The aroma of this Cleveland BBQ sauce instantly transports me back to childhood summers, spent at family gatherings on the shores of Lake Erie. The scent of grilling meats, mingled with the sweet tang of this special sauce, is inextricably linked to memories of laughter, family, and the simple pleasures of life. It wasn't just a condiment; it was a symbol of belonging, of shared heritage, and of the deep bond between family and friends. The very act of making this sauce is a ritual, a connection to the past that keeps my Cleveland roots alive, wherever I may be.

Cleveland, with its industrial past and resilient spirit, has always had a unique culinary identity. Our cuisine reflects the city's diverse population and its strong sense of community. This BBQ sauce, born out of the desire to create something uniquely Cleaveland, reflects that same spirit. It's a fusion of tradition and innovation, a testament to the city's ability to embrace its heritage while forging its own path. And for me, every bite is a celebration of Cleveland, a city I'll always call home.

Step-by-step

• In a medium sauce pan, combine the vinegar, red onion, garlic, chipotle pepper, bourbon, coriander and paprika.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
• Simmer for 10 minutes and strain into a mixing bowl.
• Whisk in the remaining chipotle in adobo puree, mustards, maple syrup, soy sauce, salt and pepper.
• Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
• Cover and chill until ready to use.