Cowboy BBQ Sauce

Samia

Cowboy BBQ Sauce is a bold, flavorful blend of smoky, tangy,and sweet ingredients like ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, vinegar, and a hintof bourbon. Enhanced by spices and a touch of coffee, it delivers depth andbalance in every bite. Ideal for grilling, dipping, or marinating, this homemadesauce adds rich, southern style barbecue flavor to meats, sandwiches, andsides, making it a standout addition to any recipe.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Servings: 5 cups

Course: Sauce / Condiment

Cuisine: American/BBQ

Calories: 70

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

2 cups ketchup
½ cup brown sugar
½ cup apple cider vinegar
1½ cups red wine vinegar
⅓ cup Dijon mustard
1 tbsp dry mustard
¼ cup strong brewed coffee
¼ cup bourbon optional, for added depth
1 cup fresh lemon juice
2 tbsp canola oil
2 tbsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp garlic powder
2 tbsp yellow mustard
1 tbsp onion powder
1 tsp cayenne pepper adjust to taste
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp salt
½ cup steak sauce
12 oz chili sauce
¼ cup Worcestershire sauce

Equipment

Medium to large saucepan
Wooden spoon or whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Airtight jars or bottles for storage
Fine mesh strainer (optional, for smoother sauce)

Method

In a large saucepan, heat the canola oil over medium heat. Add the ketchup, chili sauce, Worcestershire sauce, steak sauce, apple cider vinegar, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, bourbon (if using), and brewed coffee. Stir well.
Mix in the brown sugar, all three mustards (Dijon, yellow, and dry), smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for about 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken and become glossy.
Taste and adjust seasonings as needed add more sugar for sweetness or cayenne for heat. Allow the sauce to cool slightly before transferring to clean, airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 weeks.

Notes

Want less heat? Trim the cayenne or skip the bourbon. Prefer more sweetness? Add honey or molasses in place of part of the brown sugar. For a deeper flavor, simmer 5–10 minutes longer to intensify thickness.

Nutrition Facts