1-2-3 Sauce
A tangy, spicy barbecue sauce with a bold kick of extra-hot catsup and garlic, perfect for grilling hamburgers and adding flavor to grilled meats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine catsup, celery seed, vinegar, and garlic in a bowl.
- Chill the mixture for several hours.
- Remove the garlic before serving.
- Grill hamburgers a few minutes on each side.
- Baste the hamburgers with the prepared sauce during grilling.
Tips & Substitutions
For a milder sauce, consider using regular catsup instead of extra-hot. You can also add a teaspoon of brown sugar for a touch of sweetness or substitute the vinegar with lemon juice for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a smoother sauce, blend the ingredients after combining them. This sauce pairs beautifully with hamburgers, making it a great accompaniment for summer BBQs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the 1-2-3 Sauce alongside grilled hamburgers for a flavorful kick. It also works well as a dipping sauce for fries or onion rings. For a complete meal, pair with a fresh salad or coleslaw. This sauce can also be drizzled over grilled vegetables or used as a marinade, adding versatility to your summer cookouts.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Make sure to remove any garlic pieces before storing. When reheating, warm it gently on the stove or microwave until just heated through, being careful not to boil it, as that may alter the flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 1-2-3 Sauce contains roughly 97 calories, with 1g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 782mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, this sauce can be made a day or two ahead of time, which allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just remember to chill it in the refrigerator and remove the garlic before serving. This makes it a convenient option for gatherings or BBQs, saving you time on the day of the event.
Is this sauce suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, the ingredients in the 1-2-3 Sauce are vegan-friendly, making it a great choice for those following vegan recipes. Just ensure that the catsup you use does not contain any non-vegan ingredients, which is typically the case with most brands. It's a delicious addition to any vegan meal!
How can I adjust the heat level of the sauce?
If you want to adjust the heat level, you can reduce the amount of extra-hot catsup or mix in some regular catsup for a milder flavor. Adding a teaspoon of honey or sugar can also help balance out the heat without compromising the overall taste. Experiment to find your perfect balance!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).