This tangy and smoky BBQ sauce is perfect for adding a delicious kick to your grilled favorites. Made with simple ingredients, it’s easy to whip up and sure to become a backyard staple.
Prep Time15 min
Cook Time40 min
Total Time55 min
Difficulty
Hard
Kitchen Tips
Simmer the sauce gently to allow the flavors to meld without burning.
Adjust the sweetness by adding more brown sugar or honey if you prefer a sweeter sauce.
Use a whisk to keep the sauce smooth and prevent lumps while cooking.
Ingredients
0/14
Why This Recipe Works
This BBQ sauce is packed with bold flavors that balance sweet, tangy, and smoky notes perfectly. It adds a rich depth to grilled meats and can easily become your go-to sauce for summer cookouts or casual weeknight dinners.
Directions
Dump the ketchup, chipotle peppers with their sauce, apple cider vinegar, molasses, onion powder, garlic powder, ground mustard, smoked paprika, coriander, salt, black pepper, brown sugar, whiskey, and a splash of liquid smoke into a large pot. Give everything a good stir and heat it over medium, bringing it just up to a gentle boil while stirring often so nothing sticks. Once it’s bubbling lightly, let it cook for about 15 minutes, stirring now and then to help the flavors meld. After that, turn the heat down to low and let it simmer slowly for another 15 minutes, stirring frequently to keep it smooth. When it’s done, you can use the sauce right away or pop it in the fridge for later. Either way, it’s ready to add some smoky, spicy kick to your favorite dishes!
356
people cooked this recipe
ByMichael Davis
Michael enjoys creating straightforward meals that are easy to prepare at home.
Best Ways To Serve
This sauce pairs wonderfully with ribs, chicken, and pulled pork. You can also use it as a dipping sauce for fries or brush it on grilled vegetables for an extra kick of flavor.
How To Store Leftovers
Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze in small portions and thaw as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this sauce without whiskey?
Yes, you can omit the whiskey or substitute it with apple juice or extra vinegar for a non-alcoholic version.
How spicy is this sauce?
It has a moderate heat level thanks to the chipotle peppers, offering a smoky and mildly spicy flavor.
How long can I store the sauce in the fridge?
Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Can I freeze the sauce for longer storage?
Yes, the sauce freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before using.
What dishes go best with this sauce?
It’s great on grilled meats, burgers, ribs, pulled pork, and even as a marinade or dipping sauce.
Can I adjust the sweetness or spice levels?
Absolutely! Add more brown sugar for sweetness or extra chipotle peppers for heat to suit your taste.
Do I need to strain the sauce after cooking?
Straining is optional; leaving it chunky adds texture, but you can blend it smooth if preferred.
Can I use regular smoked paprika instead of the smoked variety?
Yes, but the smoky flavor will be less pronounced without smoked paprika.
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