Great Barbecue Sauce
A rich, tangy barbecue sauce with a smoky kick, perfect for basting ribs and grilled meats. Suitable for casual gatherings and summer cookouts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a saucepan.
- Heat to boiling.
- Let simmer for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or a touch of liquid smoke to your barbecue sauce. If you're looking for a sweeter profile, try substituting brown sugar for white sugar. You can also adjust the heat by varying the amount of Tabasco sauce. This sauce can be used in a variety of American recipes, so feel free to experiment with it in marinades or dipping sauces.
Serving Suggestions
This barbecue sauce is perfect for grilling meats like chicken, ribs, or brisket. It also pairs beautifully with 5-Up Salad for a refreshing side. Consider serving it alongside cornbread or coleslaw to balance the flavors. For a fun twist, drizzle it over burgers or use it as a dipping sauce for fried appetizers.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the barbecue sauce to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, consider freezing it in ice cube trays. When ready to use, simply thaw the desired amount in the refrigerator overnight or reheat gently on the stovetop.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Great Barbecue Sauce contains roughly 70 calories, with 1g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 916mg per serving (40% 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 in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container and it will be ready to use when you need it.
How can I make this sauce spicier?
To increase the heat level, add more Tabasco sauce or include crushed red pepper flakes. You can also experiment with adding diced jalapeños or other hot sauces to suit your taste.
Is this barbecue sauce suitable for vegans?
Yes, this barbecue sauce is vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products. Just double-check the ingredients of your ketchup and Worcestershire sauce to ensure they meet your dietary preferences.
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).