Holmes Barbecue Sauce

Prep: 15 min Cook: 20 min Cuisine: American

Holmes Barbecue Sauce offers a tangy, savory flavor with vinegar, tomato, and citrus notes, perfect for enhancing ribs or chicken for family gatherings or cookouts.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 qt. vinegar
  • 2 cans tomato paste
  • 1/2 green pepper
  • 2 medium onions
  • 2 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
  • 6 bay leaves
  • 6 lemons
  • 1/4 lb. butter
  • 1/2 c. brown sugar
  • 2 stalks celery
  • salt and pepper

Instructions

  1. Cut up the celery and onions. Cut lemons in half.
  2. Squeeze the juice from the lemons and add the rinds to the mixture.
  3. Add all the other ingredients into a big pot.
  4. Bring to a fast boil.
  5. Simmer for 15 to 20 minutes.
  6. Strain out the solids and the sauce is ready to serve.

Tips & Substitutions

For a smoother sauce, blend the mixture after simmering before straining. You can substitute the vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a slightly sweeter taste. If you want a spicier kick, consider adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce. Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can enhance the flavor profile, making it perfect for grilled meats or as a marinade.

Serving Suggestions

This barbecue sauce is versatile and pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, ribs, or even roasted vegetables. Serve it alongside American recipes like Low Calorie Potato Salad for a complete meal. Drizzle it over burgers or use as a dipping sauce for appetizers. It also complements a variety of sides, enhancing your summer cookout.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover barbecue sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze in portions using freezer bags or containers. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain the sauce's consistency and flavor.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Holmes Barbecue Sauce contains roughly 1220 calories, with 18g protein, 211g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (117% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (116% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 993mg per serving (43% of the Daily Value).

1220 kcal 61% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 18.3g 37% DV
Total Fat 42.6g 55% DV
Carbs 211.2g 77% DV
Fiber 32.8g 100% DV
Sugar 111.7g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 992.8mg 43% DV
Potassium 3115.8mg 66% DV
Cholesterol 90mg 30% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 434.5mcg 48% DV
Vitamin C 104.5mg 100% DV
Calcium 963.2mg 74% DV
Iron 40mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Milk

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 adjust the sweetness of the sauce?

Yes, you can customize the sweetness by increasing or decreasing the amount of brown sugar. For a healthier option, consider using honey or maple syrup. Always taste as you go to find the balance that suits your preference.

How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?

If your sauce is thinner than desired, you can thicken it by simmering it longer to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the sauce and heat until thickened.

Is this sauce suitable for canning?

This barbecue sauce can be canned, but it's important to follow proper canning guidelines to ensure safety. Adjust the acidity by using the recommended vinegar ratio, and process in a water bath canner for the appropriate time based on your altitude.

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).

American recipes → Vegetarian recipes → Dairy recipes → All recipes →