Classic BBQ Sauce

Name: Classic BBQ Sauce
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 16 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups ketchup; 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/4 cup molasses; 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce; 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar; 2 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp mustard powder; 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper; 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper; 1 tsp kosher salt

A rich, tangy barbecue sauce with the perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and spicy flavors. This versatile condiment adds delicious flavor to grilled meats, pulled pork, chicken, or as a dipping sauce.

25 minEasyServes 1645 cal/serving

AmericanSauceStovetopVegetarianVeganStandardLow CarbKosher-styleGluten-FreeDairy-FreeNut-FreeEgg-FreeShellfish-FreePork-FreeCorn-Free

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Ingredients

2 cups ketchup
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup molasses
1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp mustard powder
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp kosher salt

Instructions

1

In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups ketchup, 1/2 cup packed brown sugar, 1/4 cup molasses, 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce, and 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar. Whisk until smooth.
2

Add all the dry spices: 2 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp mustard powder, 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper, 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper, and 1 tsp kosher salt. Stir to combine.
3

Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and continue to simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
4

The sauce should thicken slightly as it cooks. If it becomes too thick, add a tablespoon or two of water.
5

Remove from heat and let cool slightly. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
6

Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. For a smoother sauce, blend with an immersion blender.
7

Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring to glass jars or bottles. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

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Questions

How long does Classic BBQ Sauce take?

As written, 25 minutes: 5 of prep and 20 of cooking. The longest single stretch is step 3 (20 minutes): "Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and continue to simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching."

What equipment do I need for Classic BBQ Sauce?

Beyond a knife and a board, the method uses an immersion blender (step 6) and a blender (step 6). If you do not have one, a countertop blender, filled halfway with the lid vented, replaces the immersion blender.

What can I use instead of molasses in Classic BBQ Sauce?

The entry for Classic BBQ Sauce calls for 1/4 cup molasses. In its place: Dark corn syrup, or honey with a little brown sugar. The flavor will be lighter.

How hot is Classic BBQ Sauce?

Moderately. The heat in Classic BBQ Sauce comes from 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper. For a milder plate, halve the cayenne; nothing else in the method changes. For more, add it at the table rather than in the pot, so everyone sets their own level.

Does Classic BBQ Sauce contain fish?

Yes: 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce. The full allergen list for this entry is fish. Packaged ingredients vary by brand, so check labels if the allergy is serious.

How many calories are in Classic BBQ Sauce?

One serving (the recipe makes 16) is about 45 calories, with 0 g protein, 11 g carbohydrate and 0 g fat, plus 1 g fiber and 470 mg sodium. The figures are estimates computed from the ingredient list.

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