J&G Steak Sauce

• MAKE-AHEAD

Ingredients

1. 1/2 cup golden raisins
2. 1/2 cup hot water
3. 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
4. 2 shallots, thinly sliced
5. 1 garlic clove, thinly sliced
6. 1 red Thai chile, minced
7. 1 cup sugar
8. 2 tablespoons unsulfured molasses
9. 1/4 cup tomato paste
10. 2 tablespoons tamarind concentrate (see Note)
11. 1 oil-packed anchovy fillet, chopped
12. 1 chipotle in adobo sauce, minced
13. 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
14. 1 teaspoon finely grated orange zest
15. 1 cup red wine vinegar
16. 1 star anise pod
17. Pinch of ground cloves
18. 1 cup water, at room temperature
19. Salt

1. In a small bowl, soak the raisins in the hot water until plumped, about 15 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, in a small skillet, heat the vegetable oil. Add the shallots and garlic and cook over moderate heat, stirring constantly, until browned, about 5 minutes. Add the Thai chile and cook 1 minute longer.
3. In a large saucepan, mix the sugar with the molasses and cook over moderate heat, stirring frequently, until the sugar is melted and lightly caramelized, about 8 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste, tamarind concentrate, anchovy, chipotle, thyme and orange zest and cook until a thick paste forms, about 1 minute. Stir in the vinegar, star anise, cloves and the shallot mixture. Add the raisins with their soaking liquid along with the room-temperature water. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has reduced slightly, about 10 minutes. Let cool slightly. Transfer to a blender and puree until very smooth. Season with salt and let cool completely before serving.