Capture the timeless flavor of backyard barbecues with Grandma Helen's BBQ Sauce, a rich, tangy, and slightly sweet homemade recipe that's destined to elevate your grilling game. Made with pantry staples like ketchup, apple cider vinegar, light brown sugar, and honey, this sauce strikes the perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and spicy. Smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and a touch of cayenne pepper deliver bold, complex layers of flavor, while a quick 25-minute simmer ensures a beautifully thick and smooth consistency. Whether you're glazing ribs, slathering chicken, or serving it as a dipping sauce, this family-favorite recipe is an irresistible addition to any meal. Plus, it's easy to make ahead and store, keeping your barbecue-ready for up to two weeks!
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In a medium-sized pot, combine the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, light brown sugar, honey, and Worcestershire sauce.
Stir the mixture over medium heat until the ingredients are well blended and the sugar has dissolved, about 5 minutes.
Add the yellow mustard, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, ground black pepper, and cayenne pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
Pour the water into the pot to thin the sauce slightly, and stir until smooth.
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more vinegar for tanginess, sugar for sweetness, or cayenne for extra heat.
Remove the sauce from heat and allow it to cool slightly before using.
Store in an airtight container or jar. The sauce can be refrigerated for up to 2 weeks.
Serving size | (925.2g) |
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Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
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Calories | 1256.9 |
Total Fat 1.1g | 0% |
Saturated Fat 0.1g | 0% |
Polyunsaturated Fat 0g | |
Cholesterol 0mg | 0% |
Sodium 2611.5mg | 0% |
Total Carbohydrate 327.2g | 0% |
Dietary Fiber 2.2g | 0% |
Total Sugars 287.6g | |
Protein 2.1g | 0% |
Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
Calcium 176.9mg | 0% |
Iron 3.9mg | 0% |
Potassium 720.2mg | 0% |
Source of Calories