Get ready to transform your backyard barbecue from ordinary to extraordinary with this irresistible All-Purpose Barbecue Sauce that will have your guests begging for your recipe! Imagine a sauce so perfectly balanced, it can elevate everything from juicy grilled chicken to succulent ribs, with a flavor profile that combines tangy, sweet, and smoky notes in one incredible condiment. This isn't just another barbecue sauce - it's a game-changing recipe that will make you the culinary hero of every summer gathering!
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 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Gather all the ingredients: 1 cup of ketchup, 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Ensure you have measuring cups and spoons ready for accurate measurement.
- In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the ketchup and apple cider vinegar. Use a whisk or a wooden spoon to mix them together until they are well blended.
- Next, add the brown sugar to the mixture. Stir continuously over medium heat until the sugar is completely dissolved. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Once the brown sugar is dissolved, add the Worcestershire sauce to the saucepan. Mix well to incorporate it into the sauce.
- Sprinkle in the smoked paprika and black pepper. Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure that all the spices are evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
- Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Once it starts to bubble, reduce the heat to low. Allow the sauce to simmer uncovered for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help the flavors meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- After the sauce has simmered and thickened to your desired consistency, remove the saucepan from the heat. Let the sauce cool for a few minutes before transferring it to a jar or an airtight container.
- Store the barbecue sauce in the refrigerator for up to a week. It can be used as a marinade, dipping sauce, or a topping for grilled meats and vegetables.
- Enjoy your homemade all-purpose barbecue sauce!
Tips
- Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor - fresh spices and good ketchup make a huge difference.
- Stir constantly while simmering to prevent the sauce from burning or sticking to the pan.
- Adjust the heat by adding more black pepper or a dash of hot sauce if you want extra kick.
- For a deeper flavor, consider caramelizing the brown sugar slightly before adding other ingredients.
- Let the sauce cool completely before storing to allow flavors to fully develop.
- Store in a clean, airtight glass jar for maximum freshness and flavor preservation.
- This sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, making meal prep a breeze!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 50kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
