Opa Stehling'S Barbecue Sauce

Prep: 10 min Cook: 30 min Cuisine: American

Opa Stehling's Barbecue Sauce offers a bold, tangy flavor with a hint of heat, perfect for grilling enthusiasts seeking a rich, homemade condiment to elevate their dishes.

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Ingredients

  • 2 medium onions
  • 3/4 cup vinegar
  • 2 cups shortening
  • 4 to 5 tablespoons chili powder
  • 2 cans tomato paste
  • a little water
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • few drops Tabasco

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients into a large saucepan.
  2. Simmer until everything disintegrates and the sauce thickens.

Tips & Substitutions

For a deeper flavor, consider roasting the onions before adding them to the saucepan. If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of chili powder or omit the Tabasco entirely. This barbecue sauce can be made in larger batches and freezes well, making it a great addition to your grilling repertoire. Experiment with adding a splash of soy sauce for umami or a bit of brown sugar for sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

This barbecue sauce is perfect for slathering on grilled meats like chicken, ribs, or burgers. It pairs beautifully with Ava'S Baked Apples for a sweet and savory meal. Consider serving it alongside coleslaw and cornbread for a classic BBQ spread, or use it as a dipping sauce for appetizers like chicken wings or vegetable skewers.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover barbecue sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze the sauce in small portions, allowing you to thaw just what you need. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Opa Stehling'S Barbecue Sauce contains roughly 1218 calories, with 5g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 123g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 749mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).

1218 kcal 61% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 4.6g 9% DV
Total Fat 122.6g 100% DV
Carbs 33.1g 12% DV
Fiber 7.2g 26% DV
Sugar 20.5g 41% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 748.8mg 33% DV
Potassium 890.6mg 19% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 264.5mcg 29% DV
Vitamin C 11.2mg 12% DV
Calcium 104.1mg 8% DV
Iron 4.4mg 25% DV
Diet fit High-fiber

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 use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato paste?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but you'll need to cook them down to a paste consistency, which may take longer. Make sure to remove the skins and seeds for a smoother sauce. Keep in mind that the flavor might differ slightly from using canned tomato paste.

How can I make this sauce spicier?

To add more heat, increase the chili powder or add additional drops of Tabasco sauce. You could also incorporate diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper for extra kick. Just remember to taste as you go to achieve your desired spice level.

Is this barbecue sauce suitable for vegan diets?

Yes, this sauce is vegan-friendly as it does not contain any animal products. Just be sure to check that the shortening you use is plant-based, as some brands may include animal fats. This makes it a great option for those exploring vegan recipes.

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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