Barbecue Sauce
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
3 mins
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Cook Time
17 mins
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Total Time
20 mins
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Servings
16 servings (1/4 cup each)
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Calories
76 kcal
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Cuisine
American
Barbecue Sauce
Description
The sauce is prepared by whisking together the main ingredients in a saucepan and bringing to a low boil, then simmering covered to allow flavors to develop and intensify. Adjustments with apple cider vinegar and cayenne pepper tailor the tang and heat to taste. The molasses adds richness and depth, complemented by the smokiness from liquid smoke.
This barbecue sauce pairs well with grilled or roasted meats and can be used as a glaze or condiment. Its texture is thick enough to cling to food without being overly heavy. The combination of sweetness from brown sugar and pineapple juice balances the acidity and heat from spices and vinegar.
The sauce stores well refrigerated for several days and freezes well if packed properly. Alternatives to molasses and liquid smoke can be used but will change the flavor profile. This recipe provides a classic barbecue flavor base adaptable to personal preference.
Ingredients
- 2 cups ketchup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar plus more to taste
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 4 tablespoons molasses (see note 1)
- 2 teaspoons liquid smoke (see note 3)
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
- cayenne pepper (see note 2)
- salt freshly ground
- black pepper freshly ground
Instructions
- In a non-reactive saucepan over medium-high heat, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, pineapple juice, molasses, liquid smoke, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder.
- Bring the sauce to a low boil; reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until flavors have blended, about 15 to 20 minutes. Stir in vinegar, then season to taste with cayenne, salt, and pepper (I like 1/2 teaspoon cayenne, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper).
Notes
- Molasses can be substituted with dark corn syrup, honey, maple syrup, or extra brown sugar, noting flavor differences.
- Cayenne pepper amount can be adjusted or omitted to control spiciness.
- Liquid smoke may be replaced with smoked paprika if unavailable, affecting the smoky flavor.
- This recipe yields about 4 cups of barbecue sauce.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator covered for up to 4 days or freeze in pint jars for up to 3 months.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 16servings (1/4 cup each)
Amount Per Serving
Calories 76 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 0.25 cup | |
| Calories | 76kcal | 4% |
| Carbohydrates | 20g | 7% |
| Protein | 0.4g | 1% |
| Fat | 0.1g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat | 0.01g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.02g | 0% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 0.02g | 0% |
| Sodium | 282mg | 12% |
| Potassium | 180mg | 4% |
| Fiber | 0.1g | 0% |
| Sugar | 18g | 36% |
| Vitamin A | 164IU | 3% |
| Vitamin C | 2mg | 2% |
| Calcium | 22mg | 2% |
| Iron | 0.4mg | 2% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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