Gene'S Simple (Barbecue) Sauce

Prep: 5 min Cuisine: American

Gene's Simple Barbecue Sauce offers a tangy, savory flavor with a touch of sweetness, perfect for grilling enthusiasts. Its versatile profile enhances meats and even makes an excellent drizzle for chips. Easy to customize with red pepper flakes for heat, this sauce adds a homemade touch to summer barbecues and casual snacking.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup tomato catsup
  • 1/3 cup Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 cup real lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
  2. Add red pepper flakes for a hot version, if desired.
  3. Use to baste meat in the final minutes of grilling.
  4. Also great drizzled over Ripple potato chips.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic powder or smoked paprika to the sauce. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, increase the brown sugar or add a splash of honey. For a hot version, red pepper flakes can be adjusted based on your heat preference. This sauce is versatile and can be used in many American recipes, offering a delightful balance of tangy and sweet.

Serving Suggestions

This barbecue sauce is perfect for basting grilled meats during the last few minutes of cooking, enhancing their flavor and creating a delicious glaze. It also pairs beautifully drizzled over Ripple potato chips for a unique snack. For a complete meal, serve with sides like Ranch Mashed Potatoes or Cold Pickled Vegetables to complement the smoky flavors.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors will deepen over time. If you want to reheat it, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain its consistency. Avoid boiling to prevent altering the flavor.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Gene'S Simple (Barbecue) Sauce contains roughly 241 calories, with 0g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.

241 kcal 12% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.1g
Total Fat 0g
Carbs 62.1g 23% DV
Fiber 0g
Sugar 59.8g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 214mg 9% DV
Potassium 208.2mg 4% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.8mcg
Vitamin C 2mg 2% DV
Calcium 66.5mg 5% DV
Iron 1.2mg 7% 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 make this sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just store it in the refrigerator, and it will be ready for your next barbecue outing. It can also be a great addition to meals throughout the week as a dipping sauce or condiment.

Is this barbecue sauce suitable for vegans?

Yes, this barbecue sauce is vegan-friendly as it does not contain any animal products. However, ensure that the Worcestershire sauce you use is vegan, as some brands include anchovies. Look for plant-based versions at your local grocery store.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?

You can easily adjust the sweetness by either adding more brown sugar or substituting it with maple syrup for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of sugar or add more lemon juice to enhance the tanginess.

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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