By Marie-Antoinette Issa.
We stocked up on eight supermarket condiments and here’s our verdict on the best options to upgrade your BBQ game from basic to brilliant - straight from the sauce, err source!
Verdict: If your tastebuds crave a punch of heat with a hint of tropical Caribbean sweetness, this chipotle hot sauce with mango will satisfy them. The smokiness of the peppers effortlessly fuses with the subtle fruitiness of Summer fruit to create a complex yet approachable flavour. It’s perfect for slathering on barbequed ribs, dousing on grilled chicken or even as a dip for crispy potato wedges. Sweet, smoky and just spicy enough to wake up your taste buds, it’s a versatile staple for any spice lover’s pantry.
Verdict: A game-changer for the adventurous cook, this miso paste adds an umami-packed punch that can take any dish to gourmet heights. Brush it onto salmon before roasting, mix it into a marinade for pork belly, or even whisk it into butter for a Japanese-inspired miso-glazed steak. The deep, savoury-sweet flavour makes it a delightful addition to more than just meat. Think of miso-marinated cauliflower steaks or miso-drizzled Brussels sprouts to round out your meals. Vegan, gluten-free and endlessly versatile, it’s a must-have for creative cooks.
Verdict: Sweet and spicy, this dressing brings the unmistakable zing of Peri-Peri with a tropical twist. The combination of African Bird’s Eye Chilli and pineapple creates a sauce that’s as playful as it is punchy. While it’s marketed as a salad dressing, it works just as well drizzled over grilled prawns, basted onto pork skewers, or brushed on chicken thighs. The balance of heat and tang ensures your meat will be the star of the meal.
Verdict: Hummus is stepping out of the spotlight as a dip or simple sandwich spread and taking on a starring role as a delicious Summer BBQ condiment. Try a delicious dollop over Middle Eastern kofta kebab skewers, or a Mediterranean-inspired lamb. Investing in a protein-packed version like this is also an easy way to accommodate plant-based diners, who can enjoy it smeared over grilled veggies.
Verdict: The lovechild of ketchup and pickles, this sauce adds a sweet tang that turns basic burgers into something special. While perfect for classic beef patties, it also surprises as a dipping sauce for crunchy chicken tenders or smeared over your sausages. The pickle kick brings just enough zest to make it feel fresh without overpowering the dish. Plus, its easy-squeeze bottle means no fuss serving during backyard BBQs.
Verdict: If you’re after a guilt-free BBQ sauce that doesn’t skimp on flavour, Mingle’s Tangy BBQ Sauce is a winner. With natural ingredients, minimal sugar and gluten-free credentials, this Australian-made sauce is a healthier take on traditional BBQ condiments. The tangy vinegar profile, rounded with subtle maple sweetness, pairs beautifully with slow-cooked beef brisket, grilled pork chops or roasted vegetables. Bonus: it’s vegan-friendly, making it a crowd-pleaser for all dietary needs.
Verdict: This one’s for the gourmet cooks! Tweed Real Food’s Bourbon Maple Splash is a luxurious finishing vinegar that elevates any meat dish to fine-dining status. Drizzle it over sizzling bacon to unlock sweet and salty bliss, or use it as a marinade for rich, juicy pork. Its sweet tangy profile pairs equally well with low-and-slow-cooked brisket or basted onto BBQ wings. For an extra touch of decadence, try it as a finishing glaze on steak or paired with aged cheddar.
Verdict: It may be a little harder to track down (we found ours at Sydney-based supermarket The German Butchery - which does deliver across Australia - but, the hunt for this traditional Austrian mustard is worth the search. Packed with coarsely ground mustard seeds mixed with traditional spices, it delivers a classic sweet and spicy flavour, that pairs particularly well with sausages but is equally delicious on cold meat dishes.
