Are you ready to elevate your grilling game? Forget store-bought BBQ sauces – this recipe for Grandma's Molasses BBQ Sauce is a game-changer. It's a sweet and smoky masterpiece, perfect for ribs, chicken, pulled pork, or even slathering on your favorite veggie burgers. This homemade BBQ sauce is incredibly easy to make, using simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for more! This recipe is a perfect example of easy recipes and delicious dishes achievable through homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup ketchup
- ½ cup molasses
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions:
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the ketchup, molasses, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
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Simmer the Sauce: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded. Stir frequently during the simmering process to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
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Taste and Adjust: Once the sauce has thickened, taste it and adjust the seasonings to your preference. You might want to add more brown sugar for extra sweetness, more vinegar for tang, or more cayenne pepper for heat.
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Cool and Store: Remove the sauce from the heat and let it cool completely before storing. This allows the flavors to fully develop. Store the BBQ sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Tips for the Best BBQ Sauce:
- Use good quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the sauce will taste. Look for high-quality ketchup, molasses, and spices.
- Don't rush the simmering process: Allow the sauce to simmer gently for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to develop fully.
- Taste and adjust: Every palate is different. Don't hesitate to adjust the sweetness, tanginess, or spiciness to your liking.
- Make it ahead: This BBQ sauce tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it ahead of time.
Variations:
- Spicy BBQ Sauce: Add more cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Sweet BBQ Sauce: Increase the brown sugar or add a tablespoon of honey for a sweeter sauce.
- Smoky BBQ Sauce: Add a tablespoon of liquid smoke for a more intense smoky flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. For a general estimate, one serving (approximately 2 tablespoons) contains roughly:
- Calories: 80-100
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Sugar: 15-20g
- Protein: 1-2g
- Fat: 0-1g
This recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Enjoy this delicious and easy BBQ sauce recipe! It’s perfect for busy weeknights and weekend barbecues alike. Share this recipe with your friends and family, and let them experience the magic of Grandma's Molasses BBQ Sauce.