Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup (240g)
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar (60ml)
- 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey (60ml)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (50g)
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Per serving
Calories: 140 kcal
Proteins: 1 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Method
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In a medium saucepan, combine the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, bourbon whiskey, brown sugar, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard.
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Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring to dissolve the sugar.
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Add the smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper to the sauce. Stir well to combine.
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Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
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Once the sauce has reached your desired consistency, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the sauce cool slightly.
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If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to blend the sauce until it’s smooth.
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Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add more cayenne pepper for extra heat or more brown sugar for sweetness.
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Once the sauce is ready, transfer it to a clean glass jar or airtight container and let it cool completely before refrigerating.
Bourbon barbecue sauce is a versatile condiment that pairs well with various grilled or smoked meats such as ribs, chicken, pork chops, and brisket. It can also be used as a dipping sauce for fries or onion rings.
Bourbon barbecue sauce is a rich and flavorful tomato-based sauce with a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors. The addition of bourbon whiskey adds a unique depth to the sauce, making it a delightful complement to a wide range of grilled and smoked dishes.
Facts about the sauce:
- The use of bourbon whiskey in barbecue sauce is a nod to the traditional Southern technique of using spirits in cooking to enhance flavor.
- Barbecue sauces can vary widely by region in the United States, with different styles and ingredients taking precedence in areas such as Kansas City, Texas, Carolina, and more.
- Molasses, a key ingredient in this sauce, adds a deep molasses flavor and a rich, dark color to the final product. It’s often used in barbecue sauce recipes to provide complexity.
- This sauce can be customized by adjusting the level of cayenne pepper to suit your heat preferences.
