Barbecue Sauce(Microwave)

Cook: 5 min Serves: 2 Cuisine: American

This microwave barbecue sauce offers a rich, tangy flavor with a hint of smokiness, perfect for glazing ribs, chicken, chops, or hamburgers. Quick to prepare and versatile, it adds a homemade touch to any grilled or roasted dish, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual cookouts.

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Ingredients

  • 8 oz. can tomato sauce
  • 1/4 cup vinegar
  • 2 Tbsp. brown sugar
  • 1 tsp. prepared mustard
  • 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 Tbsp. instant minced onion
  • 1/4 tsp. salt
  • 1/8 tsp. liquid smoke

Instructions

  1. In a 4-cup measure, combine all ingredients.
  2. Cover with plastic wrap.
  3. Cook on High for 5 minutes, stirring once.
  4. Let stand several minutes.
  5. Serve with ribs, chicken, chops, and hamburger.

Tips & Substitutions

For a sweeter sauce, consider adding more brown sugar or a splash of maple syrup. If you prefer a spicier kick, incorporate a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper. You can also substitute apple cider vinegar for a fruitier flavor. This barbecue sauce is great for glazing meats during grilling, so keep a close eye to prevent burning.

Serving Suggestions

This barbecue sauce pairs beautifully with grilled ribs, chicken, or pork chops, making it a versatile addition to your summer cookouts. Serve alongside sides like coleslaw or baked beans for a complete meal. It also complements burgers perfectly, adding a burst of flavor to your favorite American recipes.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover barbecue sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, consider freezing it in small portions. To reheat, simply microwave in short bursts, stirring in between until warmed through. This sauce maintains its flavor well when reheated.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Barbecue Sauce(Microwave) contains roughly 133 calories, with 1g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).

133 kcal 7% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.1g 2% DV
Total Fat 1.1g 1% DV
Carbs 24.8g 9% DV
Fiber 0.3g 1% DV
Sugar 19.9g 40% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 3000mg 100% DV
Potassium 158.4mg 3% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 39.6mcg 4% DV
Vitamin C 2.1mg 2% DV
Calcium 46.7mg 4% DV
Iron 1.1mg 6% DV
Diet fit 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 use fresh onion instead of instant minced onion?

Yes, you can use finely chopped fresh onion instead of instant minced onion. Use about 2 tablespoons of fresh onion, but sauté it briefly before adding to the sauce to soften its flavor. This substitution will add a bit of texture to your sauce.

Is this barbecue sauce suitable for vegan diets?

Yes, this barbecue sauce is suitable for vegan recipes since it contains no animal products. Just ensure that the Worcestershire sauce you use is vegan-friendly, as some brands contain anchovies. You can find vegan versions at most grocery stores.

How can I adjust the thickness of the sauce?

To thicken the barbecue sauce, you can simmer it uncovered in the microwave for a few extra minutes to allow moisture to evaporate. Alternatively, add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water to achieve your desired consistency. For a thinner sauce, simply add a bit of water or extra vinegar.

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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