Are you ready to transform your backyard barbecue from ordinary to extraordinary? This legendary BBQ sauce recipe is about to become your secret weapon in creating mouthwatering, restaurant-quality dishes that will have your guests begging for your culinary secrets! Inspired by the rich traditions of Kentucky's bold flavors, this homemade sauce combines tangy, sweet, and spicy elements that elevate any grilled meat from good to absolutely irresistible.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 cups
Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and measuring tools. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal mixing.
- In a medium-sized saucepan, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Whisk ingredients together until brown sugar begins to dissolve.
- Add Worcestershire sauce and hot sauce to the mixture. Stir thoroughly to integrate all liquid components.
- Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk continuously to prevent any dry ingredients from clumping.
- Place saucepan over medium-low heat. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent bottom scorching.
- Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes. The sauce will thicken and develop deeper, more complex flavors during this time.
- Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Transfer sauce to a clean glass jar or airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
- Before serving, stir sauce and let it come to room temperature for best flavor and consistency.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Always use room temperature ingredients for smooth, even mixing.
- Whisk Continuously: Prevent ingredient clumping by constant whisking, especially when adding dry spices.
- Low and Slow: Simmer the sauce on low heat to develop deep, complex flavors without burning.
- Storage Hack: Store in a clean glass jar and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks for maximum freshness.
- Flavor Enhancement: Let the sauce sit at room temperature before serving to allow flavors to fully bloom.
- Versatility Tip: This sauce isn't just for pork - try it on chicken, ribs, or even as a dipping sauce!
- Spice Adjustment: Easily customize heat levels by modifying the amount of hot sauce to suit your taste.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 60kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
