This easy barbecue sauce recipe will elevate your grilling game to the next level. It's a tangy, sweet, and smoky sauce that pairs perfectly with grilled meats like ribs, chicken, or pulled pork. Made with simple ingredients, this homemade barbecue sauce is much better than store-bought versions. With a preparation time of just 10 minutes, you can whip this sauce up quickly and have it ready to slather on your favorite barbecue dishes.
Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Directions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, molasses, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Whisk everything together until well combined.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the barbecue sauce to cool completely.
- Transfer the sauce to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate until ready to use.
- Use the sauce as a marinade or brush it onto your favorite grilled meats during the last few minutes of cooking for a delicious glaze. Enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Barbecue sauce is believed to have originated in the United States, particularly in the southern states where barbecue is a popular cooking technique.
Different regions in the US have their own variations of barbecue sauce, with variations in sweetness, tanginess, and spiciness.
Barbecue sauce can be used as a marinade, glaze, or dipping sauce for various grilled or smoked meats, adding flavor and moisture to the dishes.