Raspberry-Ginger Barbecue Sauce

Zingy, herbaceous chimichurri is the perfect accompaniment to grilled meats.

Commercial BBQ sauces are often high in sugar, usually in the form of high-fructose corn syrup. This recipe balances the sweetness of caramelized onions, tomatoes, honey, and molasses with the earthiness of cocoa powder. This sauce is best made a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld.

Carolina-style barbecue has a decidedly piquant flavor in comparison to its ketchup-based cousins. This sauce is great with grilled chicken, and it makes a mean pulled-pork sauce. You can even use it as a marinade before grilling. Substitute a ½ cup honey or ½ cup maple syrup for the granulated sugar, if you wish.