Imagine impressing your friends and family with a barbecue sauce so delicious, so perfectly balanced, that they'll be begging you for the recipe. Forget those bland, overpriced bottles from the store – this "Better Quicker Than Bought Barbecue Sauce" is about to revolutionize your grilling game! In just 30 minutes, you'll create a mouthwatering sauce that's packed with tangy, sweet, and savory flavors that will elevate every dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 3 cups
Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and measuring tools. Ensure you have a medium saucepan, whisk, and storage container ready.
- In the medium saucepan, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Whisk together until brown sugar begins to dissolve.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and garlic powder to the mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly to prevent burning or sticking.
- Reduce heat to low and continue cooking for 15-20 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching.
- Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper as needed. Adjust flavors by adding more vinegar for tanginess or brown sugar for sweetness.
- Remove from heat and let the sauce cool for 10 minutes. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Transfer the barbecue sauce to a clean glass jar or airtight container. Store in refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Tips
- Whisk Continuously: When combining ingredients and simmering, keep whisking to ensure smooth incorporation and prevent burning.
- Taste and Adjust: Don't be afraid to customize the sauce. Want it sweeter? Add more brown sugar. Craving extra tang? Splash in more apple cider vinegar.
- Storage Matters: Use a clean, airtight glass jar for storage to maintain freshness and prevent contamination.
- Temperature Control: Keep the heat low and steady to allow flavors to develop without scorching the sauce.
- Versatility is Key: This sauce isn't just for barbecue – try it as a dipping sauce, marinade, or glaze for meats, vegetables, and more!
- Make Ahead: The sauce actually improves in flavor after a day in the refrigerator, so don't hesitate to prepare it in advance.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 50kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
