Mrs. Will Johnson'S Barbecue Sauce

Cuisine: American

A bold, tangy barbecue sauce with smoky cayenne and spice, perfect for grilled meats and adding a flavorful kick to any barbecue feast.

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Ingredients

  • 2 cups vinegar
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup bacon drippings
  • 1/4 cup catsup
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon ground mixed spice
  • onion or garlic to taste

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients together and boil until well blended.
  2. Keep warm while using.
  3. Roast your meat; use sauce as desired.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider substituting the bacon drippings with rendered duck fat or olive oil for a lighter option. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a tablespoon of brown sugar or honey. Adjust the cayenne pepper according to your heat preference, or try smoked paprika for a different flavor profile. This sauce is versatile and works well with various meats, making it perfect for grilling season.

Serving Suggestions

This barbecue sauce is fantastic on grilled chicken, ribs, or pulled pork. Serve it alongside dishes like Savory Pork And Vegetables for a hearty meal or drizzle it over Skillet Barbecue Pork Chops for a flavorful twist. For a casual gathering, pair it with Sandwich Pinwheels and a side of coleslaw to balance the richness of the meat.

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. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals, ensuring it doesn't boil. This way, you can enjoy it with your next barbecue without losing its flavor.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Mrs. Will Johnson'S Barbecue Sauce contains roughly 269 calories, with 5g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (70% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (31% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. It also contributes 9g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

269 kcal 13% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5g 10% DV
Total Fat 8.6g 11% DV
Carbs 46.6g 17% DV
Fiber 8.5g 31% DV
Sugar 25g 50% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 228.2mg 10% DV
Potassium 799.2mg 17% DV
Cholesterol 3.8mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 628.2mcg 70% DV
Vitamin C 23.8mg 26% DV
Calcium 83.7mg 6% DV
Iron 3.4mg 19% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal Low-fat
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 make this barbecue sauce ahead of time?

Yes, this sauce actually benefits from sitting for a day or two, as the flavors meld together. Make it in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to reheat it gently before using to maintain its texture and flavor.

Is this sauce suitable for all types of meat?

Absolutely! This barbecue sauce complements a variety of meats, including beef, chicken, and pork. It's especially delicious with pork recipes, but feel free to use it with grilled vegetables for a vegetarian option.

How can I adjust the spiciness of the sauce?

To control the heat level, you can reduce the cayenne pepper or omit it entirely for a milder sauce. Alternatively, add a touch of honey or maple syrup to balance out the heat if you prefer a sweet and spicy profile.

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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