Barbecue sauce
Make it yourself
Barbecue sauce might just be the ultimate condiment.
It’s the kind of sauce that gives grilled meat a beautiful glaze, makes fries even better, and turns pulled chicken into something really special. There are countless versions around the world, from spicy and bold to sweet and sticky or rich and smoky. That’s exactly what we love about barbecue sauce. There are so many ways to make it your own.
Easy to make at home
Even though grocery stores are packed with ready-made bottles, we always prefer homemade. Not only do you know exactly what’s in it, but you can easily adjust the flavor to your liking. This basic recipe makes a classic barbecue sauce with ketchup, lemon juice, spices, and a touch of sweetness from brown sugar. Want it spicier? Add a little more cayenne pepper. Prefer a milder sauce? Leave it out and add a little extra sugar or honey instead.
A sauce with a story
Barbecue sauce has its roots in the southern United States, where every region developed its own style. In Kansas City, the sauce is typically thick and sweet, while in North Carolina it’s usually thinner and vinegar-based. The smoky flavor we love so much often comes from smoked paprika, giving the sauce that unmistakable barbecue aroma even when the grill stays off.
More than just for the grill
We love using barbecue sauce on grilled meat or burgers, but there are so many other ways to enjoy it. Spoon it generously over pulled chicken nachos or serve it as a dip with fresh vegetables. It even makes a simple grilled cheese sandwich taste even better. As far as we’re concerned, it’s a staple in the refrigerator. And once you’ve made it yourself, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought.
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Barbecue sauce
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Barbecue Sauce is an easy homemade recipe that’s sweet, smoky, and perfect for grilled meats, burgers, and pulled chicken.
Ingredients
- 2/3 cup ketchup
- 1 garlic clove
- 1 shallot
- 1/2 lemon
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Olive oil
Instructions
- Finely chop 1 shallot and mince 1 to 2 garlic cloves. Sauté briefly in a drizzle of olive oil.
- Add 1/2 cup water, the juice of 1/2 lemon, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 scant teaspoon cayenne pepper, a generous pinch of salt, and 3 tablespoons ketchup.
- Stir well and let the sauce reduce over low heat for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Gradually add the remaining ketchup. Let the sauce thicken gently, stirring regularly. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. This takes about 10 minutes.
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
