Hickory Smoked PB&J BBQ Sauce: The Ultimate Peanut Butter Burger Companion

“It’s nothing fancy,” she casually remarked, “We’re just having goober burgers.” My initial reaction was far from enthusiastic. In fact, I wasn’t even slightly intrigued; a little horrified might be more accurate. At that moment, I had no idea what a “goober burger” entailed, but the name itself certainly didn’t sound promising. In my young world, the word “goober” was associated with anything but food – usually something sticky, messy, or frankly, disgusting. The thought of it being a central ingredient in a meal was, to say the least, unsettling. Little did I know, this seemingly unappetizing dish would not only revolutionize my perception of burgers but also inspire the creation of a truly exceptional homemade BBQ sauce.

My passion for BBQ sauce is undeniable. I believe it’s the heart and soul of any grilled masterpiece, transforming simple ingredients into a culinary delight. For me, barbecue simply isn’t complete without a generous slathering of delicious BBQ sauce. It’s that undefinable “je ne sais quoi” that elevates a meal from good to unforgettable. This unwavering devotion to barbecue sauce led me on a quest to create unique and flavorful variations. Inspired by an unexpected gastronomic adventure, I developed this delightful Peanut Butter & Jelly (PB&J) BBQ sauce – a recipe that is not only healthy and homemade but also completely gluten-free and incredibly quick to prepare.

Unraveling the Mystery: What Exactly is a Goober Burger?

Before we dive into the sauce, let’s clear up the mystery of the “goober burger.” Often spelled “guber” or “gouber,” the term itself is derived from “goober,” an old Southern slang word for peanut. Indeed, peanuts were sometimes referred to as “ground peas of the South” or “pindar peanuts.” In its purest form, a Goober Burger is quite simply a hamburger topped with peanut butter. While it might sound unconventional to some, it’s a surprisingly popular culinary fusion, especially in certain regions. You can still add all your favorite traditional burger fixings – lettuce, tomato, onions, pickles, cheese, bacon – but the star of the show, the creamy, nutty peanut butter, brings an unexpected depth of flavor and a unique textural contrast that sets it apart.

My introduction to this peculiar dish happened shortly after my husband and I moved to Calgary about 25 years ago. Whenever family was in town, we would often gather at the home of his Uncle Harry and Aunt Joan. Aunt Joan was renowned for her incredible cooking, despite her humble claims that her meals were “unfancy.” Her kitchen was a haven of authentic, home-cooked food, a stark contrast to the bland cafeteria fare and budget-friendly Kraft Dinner I often relied on as a starving student. Her comfort food was a much-needed oasis, offering warmth and flavor that I desperately craved.

Even in such a welcoming environment, the idea of a “goober burger” remained a tough sell. The word “goober” itself carried connotations that were anything but appealing, making it difficult to embrace a food sharing its name with something you’d rather avoid. Plus, I wasn’t typically a huge fan of peanut butter outside of a classic sandwich. The thought of it on my beloved burger felt like a risky gamble. What if I hated it? My perfectly good burger would be ruined! Yet, whether it was my adventurous spirit that day or simply overwhelming hunger, Aunt Joan’s gentle persistence finally won me over. I decided to take the plunge.

The Revelation: Why Peanut Butter and Burgers Work

And wow, was I glad I did! From the very first bite, I was completely smitten. The combination was nothing short of amazing. The savory, juicy burger patty, coupled with the rich, creamy, and slightly sweet peanut butter, created an explosion of flavors and textures I had never experienced. It was a perfect balance: the saltiness of the meat, the smooth warmth of the peanut butter, and whatever other toppings were there, all coalescing into a surprisingly harmonious whole. Who knew that peanut butter could transform a humble burger into such an extraordinary culinary experience? It was a revelation that completely reshaped my understanding of flavor pairings.

This delightful discovery of the goober burger was the direct inspiration behind my creation of this versatile Peanut Butter BBQ sauce. I wanted to capture that magical sweet and savory synergy in a bottle, making it accessible for any meal. This sauce isn’t just for burgers; it’s fantastic on practically any meat or even vegetables. I’ve personally enjoyed it on grilled chicken, tender pork, slow-cooked beef on a bun, savory kabobs, juicy steak, and, of course, classic beef burgers or hearty veggie burgers. Its unique flavor profile adds a memorable twist to traditional barbecue, making it a staple in my kitchen for summer grilling and beyond.

Essential Ingredients for Our PB&J BBQ Sauce

Crafting this unique Hickory Smoked PB&J BBQ Sauce requires a careful selection of ingredients that blend harmoniously to create its distinctive sweet, savory, and smoky profile. While peanut butter forms the creamy base, each additional component plays a crucial role in developing its complex flavor. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a brief note on why each ingredient is essential:

• **Peanut Butter:** The star ingredient. Smooth, reduced-fat peanut butter is preferred for a silky texture, but full-fat or even chunky can be used if you enjoy a richer flavor and a bit of texture.
• **Jam or Jelly:** Adds the “J” in PB&J. Seedless raspberry jam or jelly is recommended to maintain a smooth sauce, offering a sweet and tart counterpoint to the savory peanut butter. Other berry jams can also work beautifully.
• **Horseradish:** A small amount of prepared horseradish introduces a subtle, pungent kick that cuts through the richness of the peanut butter and adds a layer of depth.
• **Liquid Smoke (Hickory):** Crucial for imparting that classic hickory smoked barbecue flavor without needing to smoke your food for hours. It’s a game-changer for homemade sauces.
• **Ketchup:** Provides the familiar tangy and slightly sweet base found in many traditional BBQ sauces, linking our unique sauce to its barbecue roots.
• **Lime Juice:** Adds a bright, zesty acidity that balances the sweetness and richness, making the sauce more vibrant and preventing it from being too heavy. Concentrated lime juice works perfectly here.
• **Dijon Mustard:** Offers a sharp, slightly spicy, and tangy note that complements the other flavors, adding complexity and a gourmet touch.
• **Garlic:** Freshly crushed or pureed garlic is essential for an aromatic foundation, enhancing the savory elements of the sauce.
• **Molasses:** Contributes a deep, rich, and slightly smoky sweetness, characteristic of robust barbecue sauces. It also helps achieve that desirable sticky consistency.

Mastering the Grill: When and How to Apply BBQ Sauce

When it comes to BBQ sauce, I tend to live by the motto, “the more, the merrier!” This zeal for sauce probably comes from my Dad, who taught me the art and joy of grilling with generous amounts of flavor-packed sauces (you can read more about that here!). However, I also understand that applying BBQ sauce at the wrong time or in the wrong way can lead to a sticky, burnt mess. While it’s true that a heavily sauced grill requires extra cleaning, and careless application can char the outside of your food, the incredible flavor payoff is absolutely worth the effort. The good news is, there are simple tricks to prevent burning and ensure your meat develops that perfect, glossy, candied crust.

The secret lies in the timing and method of application. You want to add the sauce towards the end of the cooking process, allowing it to caramelize without burning. Here’s a detailed guide on when to add BBQ sauce to your meat for optimal results:

1. **Initial Cooking:** Cook your meat on the grill normally, without any sauce, until it is about 80-90% done. This usually means it’s about 10-15 minutes from being fully cooked. This initial phase allows the meat to cook through without the sauce burning due to prolonged exposure to high heat.
2. **First Layer:** Once the meat is nearly cooked, lightly brush on the first thin layer of your PB&J BBQ sauce. Use a basting brush to ensure an even coating. Close the grill lid and allow the sauce to heat up and slightly thicken for a few minutes.
3. **Subsequent Layers:** Continue to brush on two or three more thin layers of sauce as the meat finishes cooking. Apply a new layer every 3-5 minutes, allowing each coat to set slightly before adding the next. This builds up the flavor and creates a beautiful, glossy finish without overpowering the meat or becoming excessively sticky.
4. **Watch for Flare-Ups:** Be vigilant about flare-ups and particularly hot areas of the grill. Sugary sauces can burn quickly. If you notice a flare-up, move the meat to a cooler spot on the grill or temporarily remove it from the heat until the flames subside. Lowering the grill temperature slightly during this phase can also be beneficial.
5. **The Final Glaze:** Once the meat has reached its desired doneness and is removed from the grill, immediately apply an additional, generous layer of fresh BBQ sauce. This last coating won’t cook or burn, but rather creates a vibrant, mouth-watering candied layer that truly enhances the flavor and presentation. Serve any remaining sauce on the side for dipping!

By following these steps, you’ll achieve that perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and savory goodness, with a beautifully caramelized exterior that makes all the difference. This method ensures that the unique flavors of our Hickory Smoked PB&J BBQ Sauce shine through without any unwelcome charred bits.

Why This Sauce is a Must-Try for Culinary Adventurers

This Hickory Smoked Peanut Butter and Jelly BBQ sauce is more than just a condiment; it’s an invitation to explore a world of unexpected flavors. It perfectly encapsulates the thrilling discovery of the goober burger, offering a blend of sweet, savory, and smoky notes that are both familiar and excitingly new. The combination of creamy peanut butter, tangy jam, and the subtle warmth of horseradish and liquid smoke creates a sophisticated depth that will impress even the most discerning palates.

Furthermore, this sauce is a fantastic option for those with dietary considerations. It’s naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for a wider range of guests. Its homemade nature means you control the quality of ingredients, avoiding artificial additives often found in store-bought alternatives. Whether you’re looking for a healthy BBQ sauce, a unique grilling companion, or simply an exciting new flavor to experiment with, this recipe delivers on all fronts. Its versatility knows no bounds – from elevating classic grilled chicken and pork to adding a gourmet touch to veggie burgers or kabobs.

So, if you’re seeking a distinctive and truly delicious BBQ sauce that breaks the mold, you absolutely must give this one a try. And if you’ve never experienced the magic of a goober burger, do yourself a favor: live a little, embrace culinary adventure, and dive into this delightful pairing. You might just find your new favorite meal. I promise, you won’t be disappointed.