Hickory Smoke BBQ Sauce

Samia

Hickory Smoke BBQ Sauce

Hickory Smoke BBQ Sauce is a rich, savory condiment knownfor its deep, smoky flavor derived from hickory wood. Often used for grilling,marinating, or dipping, it blends ingredients like tomato paste, vinegar,molasses, and spices to create a bold, tangy sweet taste. Ideal for enhancingmeats like ribs, chicken, and burgers, it delivers classic barbecue flavor witha distinctive smoky kick.

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 15

Total Time 20

Servings: 2 cups

Course: Sauce / Condiment

Cuisine: American (Southern / BBQ)

Calories: 60

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

½ cup apple cider vinegar
1 cup ketchup
4 teaspoons white vinegar
½ teaspoon hickory liquid smoke
¼ cup packed brown sugar
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
4 teaspoons honey or maple syrup/agave syrup as a vegan option
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons molasses
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

Equipment

Medium saucepan
Whisk
Jar or airtight container (for storage)
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
Measuring cups and spoons

Method

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, warm the vegetable oil. Add the tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, to reduce its sharpness and enhance flavor. Stir in ketchup, apple cider vinegar, white vinegar, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and your chosen sweetener (honey, maple, or agave). Mix well.
Sprinkle in brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Stir until fully combined. Stir in the hickory liquid smoke. Start with ½ teaspoon and adjust to your taste.
Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken as it cooks. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning, sweetness, or smokiness to your preference. Remove from heat and let the sauce cool. Transfer to a clean jar or airtight container.

Notes

Use caution with liquid smoke it’s potent. I start light, taste after cooling, and adjust. Swap molasses with honey or maple syrup if needed just know the flavor shifts.

For more heat, add extra cayenne or hot sauce. Want thinner? Simply reduce simmering time. To avoid burning the sauce, stir often and use moderate heat.

Nutrition Facts