Maple BBQ Sauce
Maple BBQ Sauce combines the natural sweetness of pure maple syrup with smoky spices and tangy vinegar. It offers a rich, balanced flavor profile that’s both sweet and savory. Ideal for glazing meats, dipping, or enhancing grilled dishes, this sauce brings depth and complexity to any meal, making it a versatile and delicious addition to your kitchen.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small bowl (for measuring the dry spices)
- Jar or bottle for storing the sauce
Ingredients
- 2 cups ketchup
- 1 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 2 tablespoons ground mustard
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, add the ketchup, pure maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, ground mustard, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- If you’re using bourbon, add it along with the Worcestershire sauce. Stir again to incorporate everything. Allow the sauce to simmer for 15-20 minutes, until it thickens to your desired consistency. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can cook it a little longer, stirring frequently.
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary. If you like a little more sweetness, you can add extra maple syrup. For more tanginess, add a splash of vinegar.
- Once the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together, remove from heat. Let it cool slightly before transferring it to a jar or bottle for storage.
- Use the sauce to baste grilled meats, burgers, or as a dip for fries and other snacks.