How to make tgi fridays jack daniels sauce?
I actually worked as a line cook at TGIF back in college, and while I can't share the exact corporate recipe, I can tell you the closest approximation I've found:
The sauce is essentially a whiskey-based barbecue-style glaze with distinct sweet and tangy notes. What most copycat recipes miss is the soy-pineapple base that gives it that unique flavor.
My simplified version: - Mix 1 cup ketchup, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup pineapple juice, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce - Simmer for 20 minutes until thickened - Off heat, stir in 3-4 tbsp Jack Daniels and 1 tbsp liquid smoke
Pro tip: Use Jack Daniels Old No. 7 specifically - other whiskeys don't give the same flavor. And always add the alcohol at the end so it doesn't cook off completely!
Check out Food Network's similar version here: https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes
Oh man, I've been perfecting this recipe for years! The secret to that signature TGIF Jack Daniels sauce is in the reduction process. Here's my go-to version:
Ingredients: - 1 cup pineapple juice - 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce - 1/4 cup soy sauce - 1 1/3 cups dark brown sugar - 3 tablespoons white vinegar - 2 tablespoons minced white onion - 1 tablespoon crushed pineapple - 2 teaspoons lemon juice - 2 teaspoons minced fresh garlic - 1 teaspoon grated ginger - 3 tablespoons Jack Daniels whiskey
Method: Combine everything EXCEPT the whiskey in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes until it thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the Jack Daniels. Let it cool completely before using.
The key is simmering it slowly - don't rush this step or you'll lose that complex flavor profile!