Jezebel Sauce Recipe Southern Living: Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Horseradish Blend

This Southern classic sauce delivers a perfect balance of sweet and spicy that elevates any appetizer spread. I first discovered it during Sunday family dinners, where it was always the star of the table.

With just a few simple ingredients—pineapple preserves, horseradish, and mustard—you create a condiment that’s both bold and versatile. The preparation takes 5 minutes, yet the flavor complexity tastes like it took hours.

Traditionally served with cream cheese and crackers, this sauce also pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a glaze. Its vibrant flavor profile makes it a standout addition to any gathering.

Store it in an airtight container, and it will keep its bright, zesty character for weeks in the refrigerator.

Ingredients for Jezebel Sauce Recipe Southern Living

Eight ingredients transform into this bold, sweet, and spicy Southern condiment.

The pineapple preserves are non-negotiable—Smucker’s or Bonne Maman deliver consistent quality. Horseradish loses potency over time, so check the expiration date on the jar. For the Dijon, Grey Poupon is a reliable choice, but any smooth mustard with a sharp bite works. The apple cider vinegar should be raw and unfiltered for depth (look for Bragg at most grocery stores).

No horseradish? Freshly grated at one-third the amount packs more punch. Swap Dijon for yellow mustard if needed, but expect a milder flavor. For a vegetarian Worcestershire, Annie’s or Edward & Sons are anchovy-free. Pineapple jam can replace preserves in a pinch, though the texture may thicken the sauce. Adjust sugar to taste—some prefer it sweeter.

This sauce keeps its bright, zesty character for 3-4 weeks in the fridge. Store in a glass jar for best results. The flavors meld and deepen over time, so make it a day ahead if possible. Stir before serving, as ingredients may separate.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Jezebel Sauce

This straightforward method delivers a perfectly balanced sweet and spicy sauce every time.

Step 1: Combine the Sweet and Tangy Base

In a medium saucepan, combine the 1 cup Pineapple Preserves with the 0.25 cup Dijon Mustard and 2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar. The preserves provide the sweet foundation, while the mustard and vinegar add the necessary tang to balance the flavors.

Stir these ingredients together over medium heat until they begin to simmer. You’ll notice the mixture start to loosen and become more fluid as the preserves melt. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 2: Incorporate the Spicy and Savory Elements

Add the 0.5 cup Prepared Horseradish and 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce to the saucepan. The horseradish brings the signature heat, while the Worcestershire sauce adds depth with its umami-rich profile.

Stir well to fully integrate these bold flavors. The mixture will thicken slightly as the horseradish distributes evenly. Maintain the medium heat and let it cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Sweeten and Season to Taste

Sprinkle in the 2 tbsp Granulated Sugar, 0.5 tsp Kosher Salt, and 0.25 tsp Ground Black Pepper. The sugar enhances the natural sweetness of the pineapple, while the salt and pepper bring all the flavors into sharp focus.

Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently. The sauce should reach a smooth, glossy consistency and coat the back of a spoon. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, though the measured amounts should provide perfect balance.

Step 4: Cool and Store for Optimal Flavor

Remove the saucepan from heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature. As it cools, the flavors will meld together, creating a more harmonious blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy notes.

Transfer the cooled sauce to an airtight jar or container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, allowing the flavors to develop further over time. Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best texture and taste.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Fridge Storage

Transfer the sauce to a clean glass jar with a tight lid—I use Ball Mason jars for this. It keeps its vibrant flavor for 3-4 weeks in the fridge at 40°F or below. The flavors actually deepen over time as the ingredients meld together. ❄️

Freezing Option

For longer storage, freeze in ice cube trays first, then transfer to a freezer bag. This method lets you thaw only what you need. The sauce maintains quality for up to 6 months, though the horseradish may lose a touch of its bite.

Thawing Safely

Move frozen cubes to the fridge the night before use. Avoid microwave thawing, as it can create hot spots that degrade the texture. Once thawed, give it a good stir to reincorporate any separated ingredients.

Reheating Tips

This sauce is best served cold or at room temperature. If you prefer it warm, gently heat in a small saucepan over low heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent scorching. 🔥

Serving Temperature

I recommend pulling it from the fridge 30 minutes before serving to let it come to room temperature. This brings out the full complexity of flavors, especially the horseradish’s spicy kick.

Frequently Asked Questions