Barbecue Sauce For Meats

Prep: 10 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 16 Cuisine: American

A rich, tangy barbecue sauce with onions, celery, vinegar, and tomato ketchup, perfect for glazing meats and enhancing grilled dishes with bold flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups chopped onions
  • 2 cups chopped celery
  • 1/2 cup margarine
  • 2/3 cup vinegar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 quart tomato ketchup
  • 4 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons prepared mustard
  • 2 cups water

Instructions

  1. Brown onions and celery in margarine.
  2. Add remaining ingredients.
  3. Simmer for 15 to 30 minutes.
  4. Cool and store the sauce, freezing or canning for future use.

Tips & Substitutions

For a sweeter sauce, consider adding more brown sugar or even honey. If you want a spicier kick, try adding some cayenne pepper or hot sauce. You can use olive oil instead of margarine for a healthier alternative. To enhance flavor, consider adding garlic or smoked paprika. This sauce also works great as a marinade for meats before grilling.

Serving Suggestions

This barbecue sauce is perfect for slathering on grilled chicken, ribs, or burgers. It pairs beautifully with coleslaw and cornbread for a classic barbecue meal. You can also use it as a dipping sauce for appetizers or as a flavorful topping for baked potatoes. For a twist, try it alongside the Super Easy Pound Cake for a unique dessert experience.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover barbecue sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For long-term storage, you can freeze the sauce in freezer-safe bags or containers. When ready to use, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warm.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Barbecue Sauce For Meats contains roughly 573 calories, with 1g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 500mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).

573 kcal 29% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.5g 1% DV
Total Fat 48.3g 62% DV
Carbs 36.1g 13% DV
Fiber 0.3g 1% DV
Sugar 33.3g 67% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 500.5mg 22% DV
Potassium 141.8mg 3% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 12.7mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 1.6mg 2% DV
Calcium 45.1mg 3% DV
Iron 0.8mg 4% DV

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this barbecue sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! This sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. The flavors will actually deepen and improve as it sits. You can also freeze it for several months, making it a convenient option for future meals.

Is this barbecue sauce suitable for vegan diets?

Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for vegan diets by replacing margarine with a plant-based butter or oil. The other ingredients are naturally vegan, making it a delicious option for anyone looking for vegan recipes without sacrificing flavor.

What types of meats can I use this sauce with?

This barbecue sauce is versatile and works well with a variety of meats, including chicken, pork, beef, and even vegetables. It can also be used on grilled tofu for a tasty plant-based option, making it a great choice for any barbecue gathering.

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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