Rib Ticklin' Barbecue Sauce

Prep: 10 min Cook: 20 min Cuisine: American

Rib Ticklin' Barbecue Sauce offers a rich, smoky flavor with a perfect balance of sweetness and tang. The deep notes from molasses and Worcestershire complement the sharpness of vinegar and mustard, making it ideal for grilled meats. Perfect for summer barbecues and smoky flavor lovers.

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Ingredients

  • 1 c. dark Karo syrup
  • 1/2 c. honey
  • 1 c. mustard
  • 2 c. catsup
  • 1/2 c. molasses
  • 1 c. Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 c. cider vinegar
  • 2 c. onions, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
  2. Reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes.
  3. Brush sauce on meat during the last 20 minutes of grilling.

Tips & Substitutions

For a spicier kick, consider adding a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mix. If you want a vegan alternative, substitute the honey with agave syrup. This sauce can also be adjusted with different types of mustard, like spicy brown or Dijon, to suit your taste. Remember to stir frequently while simmering to prevent sticking.

Serving Suggestions

This Rib Ticklin' Barbecue Sauce is fantastic on grilled ribs, chicken, or even grilled vegetables. Pair it with sides like Frozen Coleslaw or Fried Sweet Potatoes for a complete meal. It also works well as a dipping sauce for appetizers or a glaze for baked meats. Serve it alongside a refreshing Sparkling Catawba Punch to balance the flavors.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover barbecue sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze the sauce in ice cube trays and transfer the frozen cubes to a zip-top bag. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat until heated through, stirring occasionally.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Rib Ticklin' Barbecue Sauce contains roughly 862 calories, with 7g protein, 179g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (40% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (37% of the Daily Value), and potassium (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1378mg per serving (60% of the Daily Value).

862 kcal 43% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7.3g 15% DV
Total Fat 17.6g 23% DV
Carbs 179.1g 65% DV
Fiber 4.1g 15% DV
Sugar 137.4g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1377.9mg 60% DV
Potassium 1483.8mg 32% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 332.6mcg 37% DV
Vitamin C 21.8mg 24% DV
Calcium 265.7mg 20% DV
Iron 7.3mg 40% DV
Diet fit 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 use a different type of vinegar?

Yes, you can substitute cider vinegar with white vinegar or red wine vinegar, but keep in mind that it may alter the flavor slightly. Cider vinegar adds a subtle sweetness that complements the other ingredients well, so if you opt for a different type, consider adjusting the honey or syrup to maintain balance.

How can I thicken the sauce if it's too runny?

If your sauce turns out too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it longer to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the sauce while it's simmering until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Is this sauce good for marinating?

Absolutely! This barbecue sauce works great as a marinade. Just coat your meat with the sauce and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least an hour, or overnight for deeper flavor. Be sure to reserve some sauce for basting while grilling to keep the meat juicy and flavorful.

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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