Ingredients
Scale
- 1½ cups Ketchup: The robust tomato base that forms the foundation of our sauce.
- ½ cup Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds that essential tangy kick, balancing the sweetness.
- ¼ cup Brown Sugar: Imparts a deep, molasses-infused sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons Molasses: Enhances the richness and depth of the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce: Introduces a savory, umami element that rounds out the flavor profile.
- 1 tablespoon Yellow Mustard: Offers a subtle sharpness, elevating the overall taste.
- 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika: Infuses a smoky warmth, reminiscent of outdoor grills.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder: Adds a mellow, aromatic depth.
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder: Complements the garlic with its sweet, savory notes.
- ½ teaspoon Black Pepper: Provides a gentle heat, tying all the flavors together.
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon Cayenne Pepper: For those who appreciate a spicier kick.
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In your saucepan, mix together the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, and yellow mustard. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
- Add Spices: Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you’re opting for a spicier sauce. Stir to incorporate all the spices evenly.
- Simmer: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once it starts bubbling, reduce the heat to low. Let the sauce simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken to that perfect consistency.
- Taste and Adjust: After simmering, give your sauce a taste. If you prefer it sweeter, add a bit more brown sugar. For more tang, a splash of vinegar does the trick. Adjust the seasonings to suit your palate.
- Cool and Store: Once you’re satisfied with the flavor, remove the saucepan from heat and let the sauce cool. Transfer it into your storage jar, seal it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. This sauce keeps well for up to two weeks, ready to elevate your meals at a moment’s notice.
Notes
Consistency Matters: If you prefer a thinner sauce, incorporate a bit of water during the simmering process until it reaches your desired thickness.
Flavor Development: Allowing the sauce to sit in the refrigerator overnight can deepen the flavors, making it even more delectable the next day.
Customization: Feel free to experiment by adding a dash of liquid smoke for an intensified smoky flavor or a spoonful of honey for added sweetness.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 50 kcal
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 0.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg