This spicy Chinese BBQ sauce brings together the best of two flavor worlds. Classic Asian pantry staples like soy sauce, fish sauce, and Chinese five-spice powder form a deeply savory and aromatic base, while chipotle in adobo adds smoky heat and richness. The result is a sauce that feels both familiar and unexpected, balancing sweetness, umami, smoke, and spice in every bite.
It is a versatile sauce that works just as well brushed onto grilled chicken or pork as it does stirred into fried rice. The flavor is bold enough to stand on its own, yet balanced enough to pair with simple proteins and vegetables without overwhelming them.
🌶️ Quick Recipe Snapshot
| Flavor Profile | Sweet, smoky, savory, lightly spicy with warm spice notes |
| Primary Heat Source | Chipotle in adobo sauce |
| Heat Level | Mild to medium with optional heat boost |
| Texture | Thick, glossy, barbecue-style sauce |
| Best Uses | Grilled meats, kebabs, fried rice, dipping sauce |
| Customization Ideas | Increase heat, adjust sweetness, boost smoke, thin for glaze |
Flavor Notes
The backbone of this sauce is umami rich and aromatic. Soy sauce and fish sauce provide savory depth, while Chinese five-spice contributes warm notes of star anise, clove, cinnamon, and fennel. Chipotle in adobo introduces a smoky chili presence that blends seamlessly with the sweet and savory elements.
Unlike many barbecue sauces, the smokiness here is layered rather than dominant. It complements the spices instead of masking them, allowing the sauce to feel complex rather than heavy.
Adaptation Ideas
- Make it hotter: Add more chipotle in adobo for extra smoke and heat, or stir in 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper powder for clean heat without increasing smokiness.
- Sweeten it up: A touch of honey or brown sugar softens the spice and enhances the barbecue character.
- Thin it out: Add a tablespoon of water or stock to turn the sauce into a brushable glaze.
- Go bolder on spice: A pinch of ground ginger or garlic powder intensifies the savory profile.
- Reduce the smoke: Use less chipotle and replace with a small amount of chili paste or chili powder.
Serving Ideas
This sauce shines across a wide range of dishes:
- Used as a marinade for spicy kebab skewers, especially when left overnight
- Brushed onto grilled chicken, pork chops, or ribs
- Tossed with fried rice or noodles for a smoky twist
- Served as a dipping sauce for chicken fingers, wings, or spring rolls
- Drizzled over roasted vegetables or tofu
Storage Notes
This is a fresh sauce and is best used immediately. If refrigerated, it will firm up and become jelly-like. To restore its texture, gently heat it in the microwave, stir in a tablespoon of water, and mix until smooth before using.
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Spicy Chinese-Style BBQ Sauce
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons fish sauce
- 1 heaped teaspoon chipotle in adobo sauce
- 1 teaspoon Chinese five spice powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic puree
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Place a small sauce pan over a medium heat and add the butter until melting.
- Add flour and stir quickly to avoid lumps.
- Add the remaining ingredients to the pan and stir to combine.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 8 minutes stirring consistency and add a splash of water until desired consistency is reached.
- Serve immediately with fries or rice.