Dive into the unique culinary world of remarkable Cleveland BBQ sauce recipe.
This sauce, inspired by the rich traditions and diverse flavors of Cleveland, brings a distinctive blend of sweet, tangy, and smoky notes to your kitchen.
Perfect for ribs, chicken, or even as a dipping sauce, this Cleveland BBQ sauce captures the spirit of the city in every spoonful.
Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or simply craving something delicious, this recipe promises to deliver a taste experience that pays homage to Cleveland’s vibrant food scene.
Get ready to elevate your grilling game with this must-try sauce.
How To Make Cleveland BBQ Sauce?
Preparation Times: 10 minutes
Cooking Times: 30 minutes
Course: Sauce
Cuisine: American (Cleveland)
Yields: About 2 cups
Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Spoons
- Jar or airtight container for storage
Ingredients
- 2 cups tomato ketchup
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon liquid smoke
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1/4 cup Cleveland-style mustard pickles, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup beer (preferably a local Cleveland brew)
Instructions
Step-1. Combine the Base Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, combine the tomato ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
Step-2. Add the Spices and Condiments
Add the yellow mustard, soy sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, kosher salt, and liquid smoke. Stir well to ensure that all the spices are evenly distributed.
Step-3. Add Heat (Optional)
If you like a bit of heat, add the cayenne pepper at this stage. Stir to incorporate.
Step-4. Incorporate the Unique Elements
Add the finely chopped Cleveland-style mustard pickles to the sauce, stirring thoroughly. Pour in the beer, mixing well to combine all ingredients.
Step-5. Simmer the Sauce
Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Nutrition Facts Of Cleveland BBQ Sauce
Serving Size 2 tablespoons
| Nutrition | Amounts |
|---|---|
| Calories | 50 |
| Sodium | 200mg |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Sugars | 10g |
| Protein | 1g |
Serving Suggestions
This Cleveland BBQ Sauce is incredibly versatile. Here are some serving suggestions:
1. Grilled Meats
Brush it on chicken, ribs, or pork chops during the last few minutes of grilling for a delicious glaze.
2. Burgers and Sandwiches
Use it as a condiment on burgers or pulled pork sandwiches for an extra layer of flavor.
3. Dipping Sauce
Serve it as a dipping sauce for fries, chicken tenders, or even onion rings.
Tips and Variations
1. Adjust the Heat
Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference. You can also omit it entirely for a milder sauce.
2. Sweetness Level
If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add an extra tablespoon of brown sugar.
3. Vegan Option
For a vegan version, use a vegan beer and substitute soy sauce with tamari.
Special Note
This BBQ sauce brings a unique twist to traditional BBQ sauces with its special ingredients like Cleveland-style mustard pickles and local beer. It’s a delightful way to add a bit of regional flair to your dishes.
FAQS
1. How long does this BBQ sauce last?
The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks in an airtight container.
2. Can I freeze the sauce?
Yes, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.
3. Can I adjust the heat level?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference or omit it entirely for a milder sauce.
4. What type of beer should I use?
Use a local Cleveland brew for authenticity, but any beer you enjoy will work.
5. Is there a vegan option?
Yes, use a vegan beer and substitute soy sauce with tamari to make the sauce vegan.
6. Can I make the sauce less tangy?
To make the sauce less tangy, reduce the amount of apple cider vinegar by half.
Conclusion
Creating your own BBQ sauce is a fun and rewarding experience.
This Cleveland BBQ Sauce recipe is easy to follow and yields a delicious, versatile sauce that will become a staple in your kitchen.
Try it out and impress your friends and family at your next BBQ gathering.
Cleveland BBQ Sauce
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Spoons
- Jar or airtight container for storage
Ingredients
- 2 cups tomato ketchup
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar packed
- 1/4 cup yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon liquid smoke
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for a bit of heat
- 1/4 cup Cleveland-style mustard pickles finely chopped
- 1/4 cup beer preferably a local Cleveland brew
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the tomato ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Add the yellow mustard, soy sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, kosher salt, and liquid smoke. Stir well to ensure that all the spices are evenly distributed.
- If you like a bit of heat, add the cayenne pepper at this stage. Stir to incorporate.
- Add the finely chopped Cleveland-style mustard pickles to the sauce, stirring thoroughly. Pour in the beer, mixing well to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Notes
Welcome to Arora’s Sauce Recipe, where every drop tells a story of tradition, innovation, and a boundless love for culinary arts. My name is Brazen, and I am the founder and chief sauce creator at Arora’s Kitchen. Born into a family with a rich heritage of culinary arts, I grew up surrounded by the aromas of spices and the sounds of simmering pots, which ignited my passion for cooking from a young age.
Inspired by generations of culinary expertise, I embarked on a professional quest to capture these fleeting aromas and flavors in bottles of sauce that could bring a gourmet experience to every meal.
As the founder of Arora’s Sauce Recipe, my mission is to inspire your culinary adventures with the finest sauces. Whether you’re a professional chef or a home cook, our sauces are crafted to elevate your cooking with every spoonful.
Thank you for choosing Arora’s Sauce Recipe. Here’s to a journey filled with flavor, passion, and unforgettable meals.