3-Quart Barbecue Sauce

Cook: 10 min Cuisine: American

A tangy, spicy barbecue sauce with bold flavors, perfect for grilling, dipping, or glazing meats, appealing to those who enjoy a zesty homemade condiment.

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Ingredients

  • 8 oz. black pepper
  • 1 1/8 oz. red pepper
  • 2 tsp. chili powder
  • 1 Tbsp. brown sugar
  • 2 qt. vinegar
  • 2 Tbsp. sugar
  • 1/2 c. salt
  • juice of 2 lemons
  • 32 oz. ketchup

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients except ketchup in a saucepan and boil for 8 minutes.
  2. Add ketchup to the mixture and boil for an additional 2 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

To adjust the heat level of this barbecue sauce, you can reduce the amount of black and red pepper or substitute with milder spices like smoked paprika. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, increase the brown sugar or add honey. Consider using apple cider vinegar instead of regular vinegar for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

This barbecue sauce is perfect for slathering on grilled meats such as ribs or chicken. It pairs beautifully with Herby Potatoes and can also be served as a dipping sauce for appetizers. Try it alongside Dj'S Quick Macaroni Casserole for a complete meal that your guests will love.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover barbecue sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. When reheating, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent burning. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of 3-Quart Barbecue Sauce contains roughly 128 calories, with 3g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (26% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2201mg per serving (96% of the Daily Value).

128 kcal 6% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.9g 6% DV
Total Fat 2.3g 3% DV
Carbs 26.2g 10% DV
Fiber 6.4g 23% DV
Sugar 13.8g 28% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2201.4mg 96% DV
Potassium 466.1mg 10% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 235.2mcg 26% DV
Vitamin C 12.7mg 14% DV
Calcium 85.6mg 7% DV
Iron 3.7mg 21% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal Low-fat

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 barbecue sauce ahead of time?

Yes, this barbecue sauce can be made ahead of time. In fact, letting it sit for a day or two in the refrigerator allows the flavors to meld and improve. Just remember to store it in a sealed container and reheat before serving.

Is this barbecue sauce suitable for vegan diets?

Yes, this barbecue sauce is suitable for vegan diets as it contains no animal products. The ingredients are all plant-based, making it a great option for those looking for vegan recipes to enhance their grilling experience.

How can I thicken the sauce if it's too runny?

If your barbecue sauce is too runny, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered on the stovetop for a longer period to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then stir it into the sauce and cook until thickened.

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).

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