Get ready to elevate your barbecue experience with a sauce so legendary, it'll make your taste buds do a happy dance! Uncle Shel's Big Red Bad Lands BBQ Sauce isn't just another condiment – it's a mouthwatering journey through smoky, sweet, and spicy landscapes that will turn ordinary meals into extraordinary culinary adventures. Whether you're a backyard grilling enthusiast or a serious BBQ master, this homemade sauce will become your secret weapon for creating restaurant-quality flavors right in your own kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 3 cups
Ingredients
- 2 cups ketchup
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium-sized saucepan, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and honey, whisking together until well blended.
- Place the saucepan over medium-low heat, ensuring the mixture does not come to a rapid boil but maintains a gentle simmer.
- Add hot sauce and smoked paprika, stirring continuously to incorporate the spices evenly throughout the sauce.
- Allow the sauce to simmer slowly, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or burning, for approximately 35-40 minutes.
- As the sauce simmers, it will gradually thicken and develop a deeper, more concentrated flavor profile.
- Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper, adjusting to your preferred level of seasoning.
- Remove from heat and let the sauce cool for 10-15 minutes, during which it will continue to slightly thicken.
- Transfer the sauce to a clean glass jar or airtight container for storage.
- Refrigerate the BBQ sauce, which will keep fresh for up to 2 weeks when stored properly.
Tips
- Low and Slow is the Way to Go: Maintain a gentle simmer to develop deep, rich flavors without burning the sauce.
- Spice Customization: Adjust the hot sauce quantity to match your heat tolerance – start conservative and add more if needed.
- Whisk Constantly: Regular stirring prevents sauce from sticking and ensures even spice distribution.
- Quality Ingredients Matter: Use high-quality smoked paprika for an authentic, robust smoky flavor.
- Storage Hack: For longer preservation, consider freezing portions of the sauce in ice cube trays for easy future use.
- Flavor Enhancement: Let the sauce sit for a few hours after cooking to allow flavors to meld and intensify.
- Versatility Tip: This sauce isn't just for grilling – try it as a dipping sauce, marinade, or glaze for various dishes.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 60kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
