Favorite Barbecue Sauce
A rich, smoky barbecue sauce with sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors, perfect for grilling, dipping, or topping meats and vegetables for all your cookouts.
Ingredients
- 2 (32 oz.) bottles ketchup ⓘ
- 1 (16 oz.) bottle medium hot chunky salsa sauce ⓘ
- 1/3 cup jalapeno hot mustard ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon regular mustard ⓘ
- 1.5 cups finely packed brown sugar ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons coarse ground pepper ⓘ
- 1.5 cups red wine ⓘ
- 1/2 cup vinegar
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1/2 cup grape jelly ⓘ
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons salad oil ⓘ
- 1/2 can (6 oz.) beer ⓘ
- 3 dashes Tabasco sauce ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients, except the garlic.
- Mix well.
- Pour into jars to store.
- This can stay in the refrigerator for several weeks or be frozen.
- One hour before using the sauce, add garlic.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding more jalapeno hot mustard or even diced jalapenos. You can substitute the red wine with apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, increase the brown sugar or use honey. Make sure to mix thoroughly to combine all flavors, and remember, the sauce will taste even better after sitting for a day.
Serving Suggestions
This barbecue sauce is perfect for grilled meats, especially ribs and chicken, and pairs beautifully with Sister'S Kraut Salad for a complete meal. Try it as a dipping sauce for grilled vegetables or as a topping for burgers. It also works well with Hot Sauce For Wings for a spicy kick at your next gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store the barbecue sauce in airtight jars in the refrigerator for up to three weeks. You can also freeze it in portioned containers for longer storage, ensuring it retains its flavor. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before serving. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Favorite Barbecue Sauce contains roughly 1187 calories, with 6g protein, 107g carbohydrates, and 67g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (30% of the Daily Value) and potassium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1639mg per serving (71% 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 barbecue sauce vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this sauce vegan by omitting the Worcestershire sauce or using a vegan alternative. Additionally, ensure that the beer used is also vegan-friendly. The overall flavor will remain robust and delicious without compromising on taste.
How long does this barbecue sauce last?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, this barbecue sauce can last for about three weeks. If you choose to freeze it, it can maintain its quality for up to six months. Always check for any off smells or changes in texture before using.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?
Absolutely! If you prefer a sweeter sauce, you can add more brown sugar or even a splash of maple syrup. Conversely, if you want it less sweet, reduce the amount of brown sugar. Taste as you go to achieve your desired 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).