Southern Living’s Best BBQ Sauce: A Culinary Journey

The smell of barbecue always takes me back to summer evenings at my grandfather’s house. He was a man of few words, but his BBQ spoke volumes. I remember him carefully tending to his smoker, the hickory smoke curling into the twilight sky, and the tantalizing aroma that made my mouth water. One of his secrets was a rich, tangy, and deeply flavorful barbecue sauce. This recipe, inspired by those cherished memories and perfected over years of experimentation, captures the essence of those summer evenings. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and spicy, guaranteed to elevate any grilled masterpiece.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: Approximately 15 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 25 minutes
• Yields: 1 Quart
• Serves: 16
• Dietary Type: Gluten-Free (check labels to ensure all ingredients are gluten-free)

Ingredients

• 1 (16 ounce) can Hunts tomato sauce
• 1 1/2 cups A.1. Original Sauce
• 1 1/2 cups molasses (Sorghum)
• 3/4 cup Heinz ketchup
• 1/4 cup lemon juice (preferably fresh, from a real lemon)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 6 dashes Tabasco sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt

Equipment Needed

• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Airtight container for storage

Instructions

1. In a medium-sized saucepan, combine all ingredients: the Hunt’s tomato sauce, A.1. Original Sauce, molasses (or sorghum), Heinz ketchup, freshly squeezed lemon juice, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco sauce, and salt.

2. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Using a whisk, stir continuously to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated and the brown sugar dissolves completely.

3. Bring the mixture to a full boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. A full boil means the sauce is actively bubbling and steaming.

4. Once boiling, immediately remove the saucepan from the heat. Letting the sauce boil for too long can thicken it excessively and alter the flavors.

5. Allow the barbecue sauce to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen. The sauce will also thicken slightly as it cools.

6. Store in the refrigerator.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Spice it up: For a spicier sauce, increase the amount of Tabasco sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Smoky Flavor: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a tablespoon of liquid smoke for a deeper, smokier flavor profile. Be careful with liquid smoke, as a little goes a long way.
• Molasses Matters: The type of molasses used will affect the final flavor. Light molasses will result in a milder sweetness, while dark molasses will provide a richer, more intense flavor. Sorghum molasses offers a unique tangy sweetness.
• Fresh is Best: While the recipe calls for bottled lemon juice, using freshly squeezed lemon juice will brighten the flavor of the sauce considerably.
• Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of brown sugar slightly. You can always add more to taste.
• Make-Ahead Magic: This sauce can be made several days in advance. In fact, the flavors tend to improve as they meld together in the refrigerator.
• Thin it Out: If the sauce is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of water until you reach the desired consistency.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This barbecue sauce is incredibly versatile. It’s fantastic on pulled pork, grilled chicken, ribs, or even as a dipping sauce for chicken wings or french fries.

• Serving: Warm the sauce slightly before serving for enhanced flavor. Brush it on meat during the last few minutes of grilling or baking to create a beautiful glaze. Serve extra sauce on the side for dipping.
• Storage: Store the cooled barbecue sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to two weeks.
• Freezing: For longer storage, the sauce can be frozen in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using. The texture may change slightly after freezing, but the flavor will remain delicious.
• Reheating: Gently reheat the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

Nutritional Information

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	143 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	9 kcal	N/A
Total Fat	0.1g	0%
Saturated Fat	0g	0%
Cholesterol	0mg	0%
Sodium	517.8mg	21%
Total Carbohydrate	36.6g	12%
Dietary Fiber	0.5g	1%
Sugars	28.9g	N/A
Protein	0.6g	1%

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy Mango BBQ Sauce: Add 1/2 cup of mango puree and an additional teaspoon of chili powder for a tropical twist.
• Honey BBQ Sauce: Substitute the brown sugar with an equal amount of honey for a floral sweetness.
• Vinegar-Based BBQ Sauce: Reduce the amount of ketchup to 1/4 cup and add 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar for a tangier, Carolina-style sauce.
• Vegan BBQ Sauce: Ensure the Worcestershire sauce is vegan-friendly (many contain anchovies). There are vegan Worcestershire sauce alternatives readily available.
• Lower Sodium: Use a low-sodium ketchup and Worcestershire sauce and reduce the amount of added salt.
• Bourbon BBQ Sauce: Add 1/4 cup of your favorite bourbon after removing from heat.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use honey instead of brown sugar?
A: Yes, you can substitute honey for brown sugar in this recipe. It will add a slightly different flavor profile, but the sauce will still be delicious. Use an equal amount of honey.

Q: How long will this BBQ sauce last in the refrigerator?
A: When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this BBQ sauce will last for up to two weeks.

Q: Can I make this sauce spicier?
A: Absolutely! Increase the amount of Tabasco sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to your liking. Start with a small amount and taste as you go.

Q: What is sorghum molasses, and can I substitute it?
A: Sorghum molasses is a type of molasses made from sorghum cane. It has a slightly tangier flavor than regular molasses. If you can’t find it, you can substitute it with regular molasses or a combination of molasses and a touch of apple cider vinegar.

Q: Can I use this sauce as a marinade?
A: Yes, this BBQ sauce works great as a marinade. Marinate your meat for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator, for maximum flavor penetration.

Final Thoughts

This BBQ sauce is more than just a condiment; it’s a taste of summer, a celebration of grilling, and a tribute to those cherished family moments. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the recipe and make it your own. Whether you’re slathering it on ribs, glazing chicken, or using it as a dip, this sauce is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So fire up the grill, gather your loved ones, and get ready to experience the best BBQ sauce you’ve ever tasted. Enjoy!