Get ready to transform your ordinary barbecue into a flavor explosion that'll have your guests begging for your recipe! This Western Kentucky Pork BBQ Sauce is not just another condiment – it's a culinary journey through the heart of Southern cooking. With its perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy notes, this sauce will elevate your grilling game from good to absolutely legendary. Whether you're a backyard BBQ master or a weekend cooking enthusiast, this recipe is about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 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 mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and measuring tools, ensuring they are clean and ready for preparation.
- In a medium-sized saucepan, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Whisk these ingredients together until the brown sugar is completely dissolved.
- Add Worcestershire sauce and mustard to the mixture, stirring thoroughly to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
- Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to distribute the spices throughout the sauce.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.
- Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for approximately 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to slightly thicken.
- Stir the sauce periodically during cooking to ensure even heating and prevent scorching.
- Taste and adjust seasonings if needed, adding more cayenne for heat or brown sugar for sweetness.
- Remove from heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature. The sauce will continue to thicken slightly as it cools.
- Transfer to a clean glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Serve with pulled pork, as a basting sauce for grilling, or as a dipping sauce for barbecue.
Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the most vibrant flavor. The better your ingredients, the more amazing your sauce will taste.
- Watch the heat carefully when simmering. A gentle, low simmer is key to developing deep, rich flavors without burning the sauce.
- For an extra flavor boost, consider using freshly ground black pepper and mincing fresh garlic instead of using powder if you have time.
- The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools, so don't worry if it seems slightly thin while cooking.
- For a smoother consistency, you can blend the sauce briefly with an immersion blender after cooking.
- Experiment with heat levels by adjusting the cayenne pepper – start conservatively and add more to taste.
- This sauce is incredibly versatile – use it not just for pork, but as a marinade, dipping sauce, or glaze for chicken and other meats.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it'll stay fresh and delicious for up to two weeks.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 127kcal
Carbohydrates: 31g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
