When crisp air comes, grills and smokers fire up again. We’ve got a sauce recipe that will make your cookout the envy of the neighborhood. It goes great with everything—but especially pork chops or a pork shoulder. And it’s built around a seasonal favorite: apple ale. Plus, check out our 7 Fall BBQ Tips & Tricks below to make sure you and your guests have an easy, fun time.

Apple Ale Barbecue Sauce: One of Our Fall Favorites

Ingredients:

1 cup apple ale (apple beer will work, too)
4 teaspoons butter
1 clove garlic, minced
1 small onion, diced
2 cups ketchup
4 teaspoons sugar
4 teaspoons barbecue sauce
1/3 cup cider vinegar
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
Freshly ground black pepper

Directions:

1. In a large pot, melt butter and cook onions and garlic until soft.
2. Add remaining ingredients and stir until blended.
3. Blend further in a food processor until smooth.
4. Taste test and adjust ingredients if needed. Makes about 4 cups of sauce.

Leftovers?
Allow sauce to cool and store in an airtight container such as a mason jar for up to 2 weeks.

Source: Beerbistro (Toronto) & winemag.com

7 Fall BBQ Tips & Tricks

1. Sear autumn vegetables:
   Summer standbys are fine, but you can elevate your cookout by grilling or searing cauliflower, brussels sprouts or butternut squash.
2. Try potluck:
   A week before your barbecue, start a text thread with suggested side dishes and ask your guests to bring one side each.
3. Gather game options:
   Think outdoors AND indoors: cornhole or a wiffle ball set, but also jenga or board games.
4. Stage from the fridge:
   Clean out your refrigerator before the event to make sure you have enough space for uncooked meats and vegetables, cold salads and condiments.
5. Have a bug plan:
   Non-toxic or natural repellents help everyone enjoy your outdoor space without distraction (or bites). For example, mosquitoes hate citrus, and you can stage your table with halved lemons or limes to keep them away. You’ll find dozens of recipes for natural bug repellent online.
   
   
6. Fall beverages:
   Seasonal beer is big in October, but also offer the designated drivers non-alcohol options like sparkling cider.
7. Ice, ice, baby:
   The weather may be coolish, but you can never have enough ice. Stock up!