Uptown Barbecue-Style Barbecue Sauce

Prep: 240 min Cuisine: American

A tangy, spicy barbecue sauce with vinegar, cayenne, red pepper flakes, and molasses, perfect for grilled meats and ideal for those who enjoy bold, fiery flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 1 gal. vinegar
  • 3/4 c. salt
  • 2 Tbsp. cayenne pepper
  • 2 Tbsp. dried red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 c. molasses

Instructions

  1. Combine vinegar with salt, cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, and molasses. Stir to blend well.
  2. Let stand for 4 hours to allow flavors to meld, then serve.

Tips & Substitutions

For a balanced flavor, adjust the salt and cayenne to your taste preference, especially if you prefer a milder sauce. If you want a thicker consistency, consider simmering the sauce for a bit to reduce it. This sauce is versatile and can be used not only for barbecue but also to enhance the flavor of other dishes or even in recipes like Damn Hot Chili.

Serving Suggestions

This barbecue sauce is perfect for grilled meats, especially ribs and chicken. It can also be served alongside sides like Delicious Cabbage Slaw or used as a marinade. Consider drizzling it over baked potatoes or using it in sandwiches for extra flavor. It pairs beautifully with Good 4 U Punch for a refreshing meal.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover barbecue sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. The flavors will continue to develop over time. If you want to reheat it, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure it heats evenly without boiling.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Uptown Barbecue-Style Barbecue Sauce contains roughly 478 calories, with 3g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1864mg per serving (81% of the Daily Value).

478 kcal 24% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.1g 6% DV
Total Fat 0.8g 1% DV
Carbs 93.8g 34% DV
Fiber 1.4g 5% DV
Sugar 81.1g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1863.5mg 81% DV
Potassium 776.6mg 17% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 105.4mcg 12% DV
Vitamin C 13mg 14% DV
Calcium 158.6mg 12% DV
Iron 4.4mg 24% 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 adjust the spiciness of the sauce?

Absolutely! You can reduce the amount of cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes if you prefer a milder sauce. Alternatively, add more cayenne for extra heat. Just remember to taste as you go to achieve your desired flavor.

How long does this sauce last in the fridge?

The barbecue sauce can last up to two weeks when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Always check for any off smells or changes in appearance before using it.

Can I use this sauce for grilling?

Yes, this sauce is excellent for grilling! Brush it onto meats during the last few minutes of cooking for a flavorful glaze. You can also use it as a marinade before grilling to infuse your meats with great flavor.

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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