Basic Barbeque Sauce Recipe

Learn a Southern Tradition Almost as Old as the South Itself

How to make a basic barbecue sauce: Barbecue sauce has a long, rich history in the South and North Carolina has its own barbecue story to explore. There are many variations of barbecue in the South and most people would say you have to try them all in order to decide which one is your favorite. A basic barbecue sauce can be the perfect accent to any meats, vegetables and other dishes. Follow these instructions and you can begin to explore the world of making your own barbecue sauce and eventually begin to get creative and make your own version.

Ingredients for Basic Barbecue Sauce

  • 1/2 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup diced Vidalia onion
  • 2 tablespoons roasted garlic puree
  • 1/2 cup cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 cups ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon hot pepper sauce
  • 1/2 cup sorghum molasses
  • 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 2 smoked jalapeƱo peppers, left whole
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 cup root beer
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon dry mustard
 

Steps to Making Basic Barbecue Sauce

Step 1 - Combine all the ingredients in a heavy saucepan or pot and bring to a boil over high heat.
Step 2 - Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until reduced by one fourth.
Step 3 - Allow to cool then puree the sauce in a food processor before use.

You can refrigerate your barbecue sauce in an airtight container for up to 1 week. This recipe makes 4 cups total.

 


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