Barbecued Sauce

Prep: 5 min Cuisine: American

A versatile smoky barbecue sauce with tangy vinegar, sweet sugar, and optional green peppers, perfect for enhancing meatballs or grilled dishes with bold flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/2 cup catsup
  • 1/4 cup vinegar
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1/2 cup chopped green pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until well mixed.
  2. Use the sauce to coat or serve with meatballs or other grilled meats.

Tips & Substitutions

For a spicier sauce, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, increase the sugar or substitute with honey or maple syrup. You can also use apple cider vinegar for a different tang. If you're out of Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce can be a decent substitute, especially in American recipes. Don’t forget to taste as you go!

Serving Suggestions

This barbecue sauce pairs beautifully with grilled meats such as chicken, ribs, or meatballs. Serve it alongside sides like Finney'S Potato Salad or Mixed Greens With Honey Raspberry Vinaigrette for a complete meal. It can also be used as a dipping sauce for appetizers at your next gathering, making it a great addition to any cookout or barbecue.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover barbecue sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It can also be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. This sauce is versatile enough to be used as a dip or marinade after reheating.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Barbecued Sauce contains roughly 77 calories, with 1g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value).

77 kcal 4% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1g 2% DV
Total Fat 0.1g
Carbs 17.8g 6% DV
Fiber 1.6g 6% DV
Sugar 7.9g 16% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 273.2mg 12% DV
Potassium 275mg 6% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 5.4mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 25.2mg 28% DV
Calcium 34.5mg 3% DV
Iron 1.3mg 7% DV
Diet fit Low-carb 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, making this barbecue sauce ahead of time is a great idea! It allows the flavors to meld and deepen. You can prepare it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to give it a good stir before using it, as some separation may occur.

How can I adjust the thickness of the sauce?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it on low heat for a few extra minutes to reduce it. Conversely, for a thinner sauce, add a little more water or vinegar until you reach your desired consistency. Experimenting with these adjustments can help you customize the sauce to your liking.

Is this barbecue sauce suitable for vegan diets?

Yes, this barbecue sauce is vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products. Just be sure to check the labels on your catsup and Worcestershire sauce, as some brands may contain non-vegan ingredients. This sauce can be enjoyed by everyone, making it perfect for gatherings with diverse dietary needs.

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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