Hickory BBQ Sauce
Hickory BBQ sauce is a rich, smoky condiment known for its deep flavor profile, often associated with Southern-style barbecue. It typically combines ingredients like tomato paste, vinegar, molasses, brown sugar, and spices, with hickory smoke flavoring giving it a distinctive, robust taste. Perfect for grilling, it enhances meats like ribs, chicken, and burgers, adding a sweet and tangy kick with a signature smoky depth loved by BBQ enthusiasts.
Equipment
- Small saucepan or skillet
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Whisk or spoon for stirring
- Serving container or jar for storage
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons tomato ketchup
- 1/3 cup beer lager or amber preferred
- 1 tablespoon liquid hickory smoke
- 2 tablespoons light or dark brown sugar
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil such as canola or sunflower oil
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, combine the tomato ketchup, beer, liquid hickory smoke, brown sugar, and red wine vinegar.
- Stir in the onion powder, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to incorporate all the ingredients.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat. Add the vegetable oil and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Allow it to cook for 10-15 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as necessary. You can add more vinegar for acidity, sugar for sweetness, or hickory smoke for a stronger smoky flavor.
- Once the sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly before serving. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.