Imagine a BBQ sauce so irresistibly smoky and rich that it transforms ordinary grilled meats into culinary masterpieces. This homemade Hickory Smoke BBQ Sauce is your ticket to becoming the grill master everyone will envy. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, you'll create a sauce that packs more flavor punch than any store-bought version, guaranteed to make your taste buds dance and your guests beg for your secret recipe.
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
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon hickory smoke flavoring
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Whisk the ingredients together until they are thoroughly blended and smooth.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.
- Add the hickory smoke flavoring to the sauce, stirring to distribute the smoky flavor evenly throughout the mixture.
- Reduce the heat to low and continue simmering the sauce for 20-25 minutes, allowing it to thicken and develop a rich, deep flavor. Stir periodically to prevent scorching.
- Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper to your preference. Adjust the seasoning gradually, tasting after each small addition.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let the BBQ sauce cool to room temperature. The sauce will continue to thicken slightly as it cools.
- Transfer the sauce to a clean glass jar or airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Before serving, let the sauce sit at room temperature for a few minutes and stir well to recombine any separated ingredients.
Tips
- Use high-quality hickory smoke flavoring for the most authentic taste - a little goes a long way!
- Stir constantly while simmering to prevent the sauce from burning and developing a bitter taste.
- For a spicier version, add a dash of hot sauce or some red pepper flakes during cooking.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, thin it out with a little water or additional apple cider vinegar.
- Let the sauce cool completely before storing to allow flavors to fully develop and meld together.
- For best results, make the sauce a day ahead to let the flavors intensify in the refrigerator.
- This sauce pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, pulled pork, and even as a dipping sauce for fries!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 50kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
