Gladys' Barbecue Sauce

Prep: 5 min Cook: 60 min Cuisine: American

Gladys' Barbecue Sauce offers a tangy, sweet, and savory flavor profile with a hint of heat, perfect for enhancing grilled meats and chicken for any casual cookout.

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Ingredients

  • 2 Tbsp. vinegar
  • 2 heaping Tbsp. brown sugar
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 c. ketchup
  • 1/2 c. water
  • 3 Tbsp. worchestershire sauce
  • 3 or 4 dashes Texas Pete Hot Sauce

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients together in a bowl.
  2. Pour the sauce over meat or chicken in a pan.
  3. Simmer for about 1 hour.

Tips & Substitutions

For a thicker sauce, consider adding a bit more brown sugar or reducing the water. If you want a spicier kick, feel free to increase the Texas Pete Hot Sauce. For a vegan alternative, substitute the Worcestershire sauce with a vegan version or soy sauce. This sauce works great with grilled meats, but it can also be used with grilled vegetables for a delicious vegan option.

Serving Suggestions

Gladys' Barbecue Sauce is perfect for slathering on grilled chicken or ribs. It pairs wonderfully with sides like Shoe Peg Vegetable Salad for a complete meal. You can also use it as a dipping sauce for On-The-Wing Appetizers. For a fun twist, serve it alongside cornbread or coleslaw for a classic barbecue experience.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover barbecue sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To reheat, gently warm the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much, you can add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency. Avoid microwaving for best texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Gladys' Barbecue Sauce contains roughly 238 calories, with 1g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2033mg per serving (88% of the Daily Value).

238 kcal 12% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.6g 1% DV
Total Fat 0.1g
Carbs 61.4g 22% DV
Fiber 0.1g
Sugar 56g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2032.6mg 88% DV
Potassium 240.9mg 5% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 7.8mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 1.5mg 2% DV
Calcium 56.5mg 4% DV
Iron 1.5mg 8% 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 barbecue sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! This sauce can be made a day or two in advance, allowing the flavors to meld even more. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it. Be sure to reheat gently before serving.

Is this sauce suitable for canning?

This barbecue sauce is not recommended for canning due to its acidity and sugar content. If you want to preserve it, consider freezing it in portions instead. This way, you can thaw just what you need for future meals.

What types of meat work best with this sauce?

Gladys' Barbecue Sauce pairs well with a variety of meats, including chicken, pork, and beef. It also complements grilled vegetables, making it versatile for both meat lovers and those who prefer plant-based dishes.

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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