Description
Master the art of authentic Midwestern barbecue with this thick, tomato-based sauce. Balancing the tang of apple cider vinegar with the depth of molasses and brown sugar, this recipe yields a rich, mahogany-colored glaze that clings perfectly to smoked meats and vegetables. Simple to prepare with pantry staples, this sauce provides a consistent, professional finish for all your backyard cooking needs, ensuring a perfect sweet and smoky profile every time.
Ingredients
2 cups tomato ketchup
1/2 cup unsulfured molasses
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
Combine ketchup, molasses, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar in a medium stainless steel saucepan.
Whisk ingredients thoroughly until the sugar dissolves completely into the tomato base.
Add smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper to the mixture.
Simmer the sauce over low heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
Remove from heat once the sauce reaches a thick, glossy consistency.
Notes
Use a heavy-bottomed pan to prevent sugars from scorching at the base. Whisk continuously during the initial heating to ensure uniform flavor distribution. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 65
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg