Rib And Chicken Sauce

Cuisine: American

A tangy, sweet, and spicy barbecue sauce with vinegar, ketchup, and seasonings, perfect for glazing ribs and chicken during grilling for a flavorful finish.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup vinegar
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1/8 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed lightly
  • 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon onion powder
  • 5 to 6 drops Tabasco sauce

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients in a saucepan.
  2. Simmer and stir often until the sauce becomes fairly thick, almost like ketchup.
  3. Allow to cool, then store in the refrigerator until ready to use.
  4. Brush the sauce on ribs and chicken when barbecuing.

Tips & Substitutions

For a balanced flavor, consider using apple cider vinegar instead of regular vinegar for a slight sweetness. If you're looking to reduce the sugar, you can substitute half of the brown sugar with honey or maple syrup. Adding a pinch of smoked paprika can enhance the smoky flavor profile. This sauce also works well as a marinade for grilled vegetables or as a dip for your favorite appetizers.

Serving Suggestions

This Rib and Chicken Sauce pairs beautifully with grilled corn on the cob and a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. Serve it alongside baked beans or coleslaw for added texture and flavor. Drizzle some extra sauce on top before serving for a delicious finish, or use it as a dipping sauce for appetizers like chicken wings or ribs.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. The flavors will meld and improve over time. When reheating, warm it gently on the stove over low heat to maintain its consistency, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling, as it can alter the taste and texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Rib And Chicken Sauce contains roughly 248 calories, with 7g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (71% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1805mg per serving (78% of the Daily Value).

248 kcal 12% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7.4g 15% DV
Total Fat 0.9g 1% DV
Carbs 56.1g 20% DV
Fiber 11.2g 40% DV
Sugar 9.8g 20% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1805.1mg 78% DV
Potassium 781.3mg 17% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 10.4mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 63.7mg 71% DV
Calcium 248.3mg 19% DV
Iron 2.9mg 16% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal Low-fat

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 sauce in advance?

Absolutely! In fact, making this sauce a day or two ahead enhances the flavors as they meld together. Just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container and give it a good stir before using it. This makes it a perfect option for meal prep during busy grilling seasons.

Is this sauce suitable for vegetarian dishes?

Yes, while this sauce is traditionally used for ribs and chicken, it can also be a great addition to vegetarian dishes. Try it brushed on grilled tofu or tempeh, or used as a dipping sauce for roasted vegetables for a delicious flavor boost that works well with many vegan recipes.

How can I adjust the spiciness of the sauce?

To control the heat, start with fewer drops of Tabasco sauce and taste the mixture before adding more. You can also substitute with milder hot sauces or even omit it entirely for a non-spicy version. If you prefer extra heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to suit your taste.

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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