Mama Ethel'S Barbecue Sauce
A tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy barbecue sauce with lemon and onion flavors, perfect for grilled meats and suitable for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine tomato sauce, chili powder, vinegar, onions, garlic powder, oil, and sugar in a saucepan.
- Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Roll lemons to soften them.
- Slice lemons and squeeze juice into the mixture.
- Stir well to incorporate lemon juice.
- Add lemon rinds to the sauce.
- Simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Optionally, add half a teaspoon of ground cayenne pepper for extra spiciness.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother sauce, consider blending the mixture after simmering. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, adjust the sugar to taste, starting with 1/2 cup and increasing as desired. You can substitute olive oil for the cooking oil if you want a richer flavor. If fresh lemons are unavailable, bottled lemon juice can be used, but fresh is recommended for the best taste.
Serving Suggestions
This barbecue sauce is perfect for grilling meats, especially chicken and ribs. It also pairs beautifully with Eight-Vegetable Marinated Salad for a refreshing side. Consider serving it alongside Fire Department Potatoes for a hearty meal. You can also use it as a dipping sauce for vegetables or as a marinade for tofu in vegan recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover barbecue sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To reheat, simply warm it over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens too much in the fridge, add a splash of water or vinegar while reheating to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mama Ethel'S Barbecue Sauce contains roughly 349 calories, with 3g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C.
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 spiciness of this barbecue sauce?
Yes, you can easily adjust the heat level. If you prefer a milder sauce, omit the cayenne pepper entirely. For a spicier version, increase the amount of cayenne or add hot sauce to taste. Always taste as you go to ensure it meets your preference.
How long can I store this barbecue sauce?
The barbecue sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, consider freezing it in portions. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and it can last for up to three months in the freezer. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
What meats work best with Mama Ethel's Barbecue Sauce?
This barbecue sauce is ideal for grilled chicken, ribs, and pork. It also works well with beef brisket and even grilled vegetables. For a vegetarian option, try it with grilled tofu or tempeh. It adds a delicious flavor to any dish it's paired with.
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).