Open Pit BBQ Sauce Recipe is a tangy, sweet, vinegar based sauce made with ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and spices, simmered until rich, bold, and perfectly blended.
This Open Pit BBQ Sauce Recipe is incredibly delicious and coats grilled meats beautifully. I made this Open Pit BBQ Sauce Recipe after watching an old barbecue documentary that showed how traditional sauces were crafted.
Inspired by that, I recreated it at home. I will now show up and guide you step by step through making this bold, flavourful Open Pit BBQ Sauce Recipe.
Why This Open Pit BBQ Sauce Recipe Is The Only One You’ll Need?
This Open Pit BBQ Sauce Recipe stands out because of its bold, tangy flavor and smooth, rich texture that clings beautifully to grilled meats.
The balance of vinegar, sweetness, and spices creates a deep, satisfying taste that enhances everything from ribs to chicken.
Every ingredient adds depth, from the honey and brown sugar to the kick of cayenne. Once tasted, no other sauce compares, making this the go to choice for backyard grilling and home cooked favorites.
How To Prepare Open Pit BBQ Sauce Recipe?
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Makes about 4 cups of sauce
Course: Condiment / Sauce
Cuisine: American (Southern Style BBQ)
Difficulty: Easy
Main Kitchen Utensils Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Airtight jar or container for storage
Ingredients
- 1 cup Heinz ketchup
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 cups white vinegar
- 7 oz tomato paste
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
1. Start by grabbing a medium-sized saucepan and setting it over medium heat. Add the tomato paste, honey, and vinegar, then stir everything together until it’s nicely blended.
2. Next, toss in the garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, black pepper, and a bit of salt. Stir it all in so the spices are evenly mixed throughout.
3. Once that’s combined, pour in the ketchup, brown sugar, paprika, lemon juice, hot sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Give it a good stir until the whole thing is smooth and well mixed.
4. Turn the heat down low and let the sauce simmer, uncovered, for about 25 minutes. Stir it now and then so it doesn’t stick or burn. It’ll start to thicken as it cooks.
5. When it’s done, take the pan off the heat and let the sauce cool down to room temperature. Once cooled, pour it into a jar or container with a tight lid. Keep it in the fridge it should stay good for 2 to 3 weeks.
Nutrition Facts Per Serving
| Nutrition | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Sugar | 25 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
Open Pit BBQ Sauce Recipe
This Open Pit BBQ Sauce Recipe features a perfect balance of vinegar, sweet honey, and savoury spices, creating a rich and flavourful sauce ideal for barbecuing.
The main speciality of this Open Pit BBQ Sauce Recipe is its unique blend of bold flavours, combining tomato paste, white vinegar, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce, which gives it a deep, smoky taste with just the right amount of heat and sweetness.
It enhances grilled meats beautifully, making it a staple for any BBQ lover.
Helpful Tips
➣ Stir the sauce frequently during cooking to prevent it from sticking or burning at the bottom of the pan.
➣ Simmer on low heat to allow flavors to develop fully without reducing too quickly.
➣ Taste during cooking and adjust sweetness or spice to match personal preference.
➣ Let the sauce rest overnight in the refrigerator to deepen the flavour before using.
➣ Use clean utensils each time to avoid introducing bacteria into the stored sauce.
Amazing Serving Ideas
1. Brush generously over grilled ribs during the final minutes of cooking for a sticky, flavourful glaze.
2. Serve as a dipping sauce alongside crispy chicken tenders or fried wings.
3. Mix into shredded pulled pork for sandwiches loaded with bold, tangy flavour.
4. Spread on burgers in place of ketchup for a smoky, sweet upgrade.
5. Toss roasted vegetables like cauliflower or potatoes in the sauce for a bold barbecue twist.
Best Variations
➣ Add crushed mango or peach for a fruity, tropical-style BBQ sauce that pairs well with grilled chicken.
➣ Stir in sriracha and red pepper flakes for an extra-hot version that delivers bold heat.
➣ Blend in roasted garlic for a richer, savoury twist that enhances slow-cooked meats.
➣ Mix in ground espresso or brewed coffee to create a deep, smoky flavor ideal for beef.
➣ Use soy sauce and ginger for an Asian-inspired version suited for ribs and pork.
How To Store Leftovers Open Pit BBQ Sauce Recipe?
Store leftover Open Pit BBQ Sauce Recipe in a clean, airtight glass jar or container to maintain freshness and flavour.
Keep it refrigerated immediately after cooling completely to room temperature. Use a clean spoon each time to avoid contamination.
The Open Pit BBQ Sauce Recipe stays good for up to two weeks in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer safe containers or ice cube trays, then transfer to sealed bags.
Thaw in the refrigerator before use and stir well before serving or reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Thicken The Sauce If It’s Too Thin?
Simmer the sauce longer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired thickness.
Is This Sauce Suitable For Vegetarians?
Yes, if using a vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, the recipe remains vegetarian-friendly.
Can I Make The Sauce Less Spicy?
Reduce or omit cayenne pepper and hot sauce for a milder flavour.
What Type Of Vinegar Works Best In This Recipe?
White vinegar gives the classic tang, but apple cider vinegar can be used for a slightly sweeter variation.
Conclusion
This was an easy and enjoyable recipe to make, and the delicious results were truly a success. I hope you’ll be inspired to try this Open Pit BBQ Sauce Recipe yourself.
It’s simple to prepare, packed with flavour, and perfect for your next meal. Now it’s your turn make it soon and let me know how delicious it turns out for you after you give it a try!
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Open Pit BBQ Sauce Recipe
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Airtight jar or container (for storage)
Ingredients
- 1 cup Heinz ketchup
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 cups white vinegar
- 7 oz tomato paste
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Start by grabbing a medium-sized saucepan and setting it over medium heat. Add the tomato paste, honey, and vinegar, then stir everything together until it’s nicely blended.
- Next, toss in the garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, black pepper, and a bit of salt. Stir it all in so the spices are evenly mixed throughout.
- Once that’s combined, pour in the ketchup, brown sugar, paprika, lemon juice, hot sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Give it a good stir until the whole thing is smooth and well mixed.
- Turn the heat down low and let the sauce simmer, uncovered, for about 25 minutes. Stir it now and then so it doesn’t stick or burn. It’ll start to thicken as it cooks.
- When it’s done, take the pan off the heat and let the sauce cool down to room temperature. Once cooled, pour it into a jar or container with a tight lid. Keep it in the fridge it should stay good for 2 to 3 weeks.
Notes
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120 kcal | Fat: 0 g | Carbohydrates: 30 g | Sugar: 25 g | Protein: 0 g“Hi, I’m Samia, a passionate recipe creator with 5 years of experience in crafting delicious, unique dishes. My love for cooking has led me to explore a variety of cuisines, combining flavors to create memorable meals for every occasion. Whether it’s a simple weeknight dinner or an elaborate feast, I believe in making every dish special. Join me on my culinary journey as I share easy-to-follow recipes and tips that will inspire your cooking and bring joy to your kitchen!”