Are you ready to elevate your grilling game? Forget store-bought sauces; this Duke's Barbecue Sauce recipe is the secret weapon you've been missing. It's tangy, smoky, and oh-so-delicious – the perfect complement to ribs, chicken, pulled pork, or even as a dipping sauce for fries! This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking, offering a delicious dish that's sure to become a family favorite. Whether you're searching for quick dinner ideas or healthy meals, this recipe delivers on flavor and satisfaction. It’s one of the best recipes for a reason!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, yellow mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
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Simmer the Sauce: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Thicken the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly. Stir in the water during the last 5 minutes of cooking. This helps to adjust the consistency to your liking.
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Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more brown sugar for sweetness, vinegar for tang, or cayenne pepper for heat.
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Cool and Store: Remove the sauce from the heat and let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Cooking Tips for the Best Barbecue Sauce:
- Use good quality ingredients: The flavor of your barbecue sauce will be significantly impacted by the quality of your ingredients. Look for good quality ketchup and vinegar for the best results.
- Don't rush the simmering process: Allowing the sauce to simmer gently allows the flavors to meld and deepen.
- Adjust the consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it for a longer period. If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a little more water.
- Taste as you go: This allows you to fine-tune the flavors to your exact preferences.
Variations:
- Spicy Duke's: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Sweet Duke's: Increase the brown sugar to 1/3 cup for a sweeter sauce.
- Honey Duke's: Substitute 2 tablespoons of honey for 2 tablespoons of brown sugar for a unique flavor profile.
- Smoky Duke's: Add a few drops of liquid smoke for a more intense smoky flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 60-70
- Fat: Negligible
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Protein: 1-2g
Please note that this nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This Duke's Barbecue Sauce recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a delicious and versatile sauce that can be used in countless ways. Enjoy!