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Classic BBQ Sauce

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

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. 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. 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. 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. 4

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

  5. 5

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

  6. 6

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

  7. 7

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

Questions

How long does Classic BBQ Sauce keep?

Refrigerated in a sealed jar, it keeps four to five days. It also freezes flat in a bag for up to three months.

Can I halve or double Classic BBQ Sauce?

Yes. As written it serves 16. Every ingredient in this entry carries precomputed half and double quantities, and the app's batch dial rewrites them inside each step. When doubling on the stovetop, use your widest pan or work in two batches so the food sears instead of steaming.

Serve it with

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