Recipe: Gluten Free Strawberry BBQ Sauce

I've always been intrigued with the idea of a strawberry BBQ sauce, but never got around to experimenting in the kitchen.  Then we went strawberry picking, and I've been cooking up a storm with all the local, fresh strawberries I brought home.  Making this sauce took a little bit of experimenting, and even when I thought I was done I wasn't completely satisfied with the result.  It was good, but not as good as I wanted it to be, so I left it alone for a few days while I focused on some other things before trying again.  This time I'm happy.  It's sweet and spicy, with some tang.  The recipe below is how I made it, but feel free to substitute or adjust to your personal taste. 
I would recommend using this on ribs, pulled pork, BBQ chicken, or even in a turkey sandwich. 

Gluten Free Strawberry Barbecue Sauce

Ingredients

2 cups strawberries (amount after hulling)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup water
1/4 cup GF ketchup
2 tablespoons vinegar (I used balsamic, but whatever you have on hand)
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 tablespoons GF soy sauce
Salt & Pepper to taste
Dash of paprika (optional)
Hot Sauce to taste (optional)


Directions

1- Place all the ingredients in a blender and mix until smooth.  If you want a chunky sauce, leave 1/2 cup of strawberries aside. Roughly chop and add to the sauce after blending.

2- Pour sauce into a saucepan and heat over medium heat, until sauce starts to bubble.  Turn heat to low and simmer until sauce reduces by about 1/4, or until the flavours meld to you liking, stirring occasionally.  Adjust seasonings and remove from heat.

3- Store sauce in a canning jar or freeze in an airtight freezer bag or container.  Sauce will last a few weeks in the refrigerator.