Lee Lee’s Famous Barbecue Sauce for Ribs W/ Preserves

The scent of barbecue always brings me back to summer evenings spent with family. I remember one particular Fourth of July, the air thick with humidity and the sound of cicadas. My grandfather, a man of few words but a master of the grill, used a sauce so unique, so subtly sweet, that it elevated his ribs to legendary status. This recipe reminds me so much of those gatherings, and I’m thrilled to share it with you.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 minute
• Total Time: 6 minutes
• Yields: 3/4 cup
• Serves: 6
• Dietary Type: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• ¾ cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon vinegar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 dash Worcestershire sauce
• 1 ½ teaspoons butter
• 1 pinch garlic powder
• 1 drop Tabasco sauce
• Peach preserves or apricot preserves, enough to thicken the sauce (approximately ½ to ¾ of a small jar)

Equipment Needed

• Small saucepan
• Whisk or spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan, combine the ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, salt, pepper, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, butter, garlic powder, and Tabasco sauce.
2. Place the saucepan over low heat.
3. Heat the mixture until the butter is completely melted, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent scorching.
4. Once the butter is melted, add the peach preserves or apricot preserves. Begin with about half of a small jar.
5. Stir the sauce continuously as the preserves melt and incorporate into the other ingredients.
6. Continue to add preserves, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches a thick consistency that coats the back of a spoon nicely. Keep in mind that the sauce will thicken slightly as it cools.
7. Remove the saucepan from the heat. The sauce is now ready to use.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Preserve Perfection: The type of preserves you choose will subtly alter the flavor profile. Peach preserves provide a classic, summery sweetness, while apricot preserves add a slightly tangier note. Feel free to experiment with other fruit preserves like plum or even fig for a bolder flavor.
• Sugar Control: Be mindful of the sugar content in your preserves. Some brands are sweeter than others. Adjust the amount of brown sugar accordingly, or omit it entirely if you prefer a less sweet sauce.
• Heat Management: Low and slow is the key! Keep the heat low to prevent the sauce from scorching and to allow the flavors to meld together properly.
• Spice It Up: For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of your favorite hot sauce along with the Tabasco.
• Pre-Grill Prep: If you’re grilling ribs, apply the sauce during the final stages of cooking. The sugar in the preserves can burn easily, so waiting until the end will ensure a beautifully glazed finish without a charred mess.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This barbecue sauce is, of course, fantastic on ribs! But don’t limit yourself. It’s also delicious on chicken, pulled pork (without the preserves!), burgers, or even as a dipping sauce for fries or onion rings.

• Serving: Brush the sauce generously over your cooked meat and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to absorb. For a glossy finish, you can add another thin layer of sauce just before serving.
• Storage: Store leftover barbecue sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to a week. You can also freeze the sauce for longer storage (up to 3 months). Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using.

Nutritional Information

Please note that this is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and quantities used.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	50 kcal	3%
Total Fat	1g	1%
Saturated Fat	0.5g	3%
Cholesterol	0mg	0%
Sodium	250mg	11%
Total Carbohydrate	10g	4%
Dietary Fiber	0g	0%
Sugars	8g	16%
Protein	0g	0%

Variations & Substitutions

• Smoked Paprika: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky depth of flavor.
• Maple Syrup: Replace the brown sugar with maple syrup for a more complex sweetness.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Use apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar for a slightly fruitier tang.
• Honey: A tablespoon of honey can be used in place of the brown sugar for a different kind of sweetness, and honey won’t burn as easily as sugar.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always double-check the labels of your ingredients, especially the Worcestershire sauce, to ensure they are certified gluten-free if you have a sensitivity.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use sugar-free preserves to make this recipe healthier?
A: Yes, you can substitute with sugar-free preserves, but the flavor and texture may be slightly different. You may need to adjust the other ingredients to compensate for the lack of sweetness.

Q: Can I make a large batch of this sauce and store it?
A: Absolutely! The recipe is easily doubled or tripled. Just make sure to store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer.

Q: What if my sauce is too thin?
A: If your sauce is too thin, continue to simmer it over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency. You can also add a small amount of cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water) to thicken it quickly.

Q: Can I use this sauce on pulled pork?
A: The original recipe suggests omitting the preserves when using this sauce for pulled pork. This will provide a more savory flavor profile that complements the richness of the pork.

Q: How do I prevent the sauce from burning on the grill?
A: The key is to apply the sauce during the final stages of grilling, when the meat is almost cooked through. This will allow the sauce to glaze beautifully without burning.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope this recipe becomes a staple in your kitchen, just as it has in mine. The beauty of this barbecue sauce lies in its simplicity and adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different preserves, spices, and sweeteners to create a flavor that’s uniquely your own. Don’t hesitate to share your feedback and let me know how you’ve personalized this classic recipe. Pair your perfectly sauced ribs with a crisp coleslaw and some grilled corn on the cob for the ultimate summer feast. Cheers to good food and even better company!