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Better Cooking Tips
- Simmer the sauce slowly to let the flavors blend well.
- Adjust the heat by adding more or less chili powder to suit your taste.
- Stir frequently to prevent the sauce from sticking or burning at the bottom.
Ingredients 0/17
Why This Recipe Is So Popular
This sauce brings a perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors that remind you of a classic Texas cookout. It’s rich and bold, making every bite unforgettable. Grampa Dave’s special touch adds a homemade warmth you won’t find in store-bought sauces.
Directions
Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once it’s melted, toss in the chopped onion and garlic, and cook them gently, stirring occasionally, until they’re soft and fragrant—about 5 minutes. Next, add the orange juice, cider vinegar, lemon juice, and the lemon slices to the pan. Stir in the maple syrup, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, molasses, and brown sugar until everything is well combined. Sprinkle in the dry mustard, salt, red pepper flakes, cumin, and paprika, then give it all a good stir. Let the sauce simmer gently for anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour so the flavors can really meld together. Before you’re ready to use it, fish out the lemon slices and discard them.
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What To Serve With This Dish
This sauce pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like ribs, brisket, or chicken. It’s also great as a dipping sauce for fries or drizzled over roasted vegetables for an extra kick of flavor. Use it to add a smoky twist to burgers or pulled pork sandwiches.
How To Preserve This Dish
Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Before using again, give it a good stir and warm it slightly to bring back its rich, saucy texture. You can also freeze it in smaller portions for longer storage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better after sitting overnight in the fridge. Just reheat gently before serving.
How spicy is this sauce?
It has a mild heat from the red pepper flakes, but you can adjust the amount to make it milder or spicier.
Can I substitute the maple syrup with something else?
You can use honey or brown sugar if you don’t have maple syrup, but the flavor will be slightly different.
Is it necessary to remove the lemon slices before serving?
Yes, the lemon slices are for flavor during cooking and should be discarded before using the sauce.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Fresh lemon juice is best for flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.
How should I store leftover sauce?
Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Can I make this sauce vegan?
To make it vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative.
What dishes go well with this sauce?
It’s great on grilled meats, especially beef and pork, and also works well as a dipping sauce.
