Try this tangy and sweet homemade BBQ sauce recipe that will enhance the flavors of your grilled or smoked meats. Made with a combination of pantry staples and a few secret ingredients, this Southern California-inspired sauce will take your BBQ dishes to the next level. Perfect for ribs, chicken, pulled pork, or even as a dipping sauce, this versatile BBQ sauce will be a hit at your next cookout.
Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon molasses
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1/4 teaspoon liquid smoke (optional for smoky flavor)
Directions
- In a medium saucepan, combine all the ingredients
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat
- Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally
- Remove the sauce from the heat and let it cool before using
- Brush the sauce onto your favorite grilled or smoked meats during the last 10 minutes of cooking
- Serve the remaining sauce alongside the cooked meats as a dipping sauce
Interesting Facts
This BBQ sauce recipe is a variation of the classic Kansas City-style sauce, adding a Southern California twist with the inclusion of liquid smoke for a smoky flavor.
The combination of apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and molasses gives this sauce a unique tangy and sweet flavor profile.
Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper if you prefer a spicier sauce, or omit it entirely for a milder flavor.
This homemade BBQ sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.