In the heart of the American South, where culinary traditions run deep and flavor reigns supreme, there exists a sauce that embodies the very essence of Southern barbecue mastery: Memphis BBQ sauce.
With its roots firmly planted in the vibrant culture of Tennessee’s largest city, this BBQ sauce is a tantalizing fusion of tangy, sweet, and smoky notes that dance harmoniously on the palate.
Crafted with care and passed down through generations, this sauce is more than just a condiment – it’s a culinary heirloom, a testament to the rich history and unwavering passion that define Southern barbecue.
So, join me on a journey through the soulful streets of Memphis as we unravel the savory secrets of this iconic sauce, one mouthwatering bite at a time.
How To Make Memphis BBQ Sauce?
Preparation Times: 10 minutes
Cooking Times: 20 minutes
Course: Condiment
Cuisine: American
Yields: Approximately 2 cups
Equipment Needed
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Jar or container for storage
Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon molasses
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon celery seed
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 2 tablespoons canola oil
- Salt and black pepper (adjust to taste)
Instructions
Step-1. Mix and Heat
Combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar in a saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
Step-2. Add Flavor
Stir in Worcestershire sauce, molasses, yellow mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, celery seed, and chili powder.
Step-3. Smooth Texture
Drizzle in canola oil while stirring continuously to create a smooth consistency.
Step-4. Simmer and Season
Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes to meld flavors. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Nutrition Facts Of Memphis BBQ Sauce
Serving size 2 tablespoons
| Nutrition | Amounts |
|---|---|
| Calories | 60 |
| Total Fat | 2g |
| Protein | 0.5g |
| Sodium | 280mg |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Sugars | 8g |
Serving Suggestions
✱ Slather generously over grilled meats such as ribs, chicken, or pulled pork.
✱ Use as a dipping sauce for crispy chicken tenders or sweet potato fries.
✱ Incorporate into burger patties for a flavorful twist on classic burgers.
Tips and Variations
✦ For a smokier flavor, add a splash of liquid smoke to the sauce.
✦ Adjust the level of spiciness by increasing or decreasing the amount of cayenne pepper.
✦ Experiment with different types of vinegar, such as white vinegar or balsamic vinegar, for unique flavor profiles.
Special Note
Feel free to customize the Memphis BBQ sauce recipe according to your taste preferences.
Health Benefits Of Memphis BBQ Sauce
✤ Contains antioxidants from spices like paprika and garlic powder.
✤ Molasses provides iron and calcium.
✤ Canola oil adds heart-healthy fats.
FAQS
Can I store the sauce in the refrigerator?
Yes, this BBQ sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Just make sure to use an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Is this BBQ sauce gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of brown sugar to suit your taste preferences.
Can I use this sauce as a marinade?
Yes, it works wonderfully as a marinade for meats before grilling or smoking.
Conclusion
With its rich history and bold flavor, Memphis BBQ sauce is a must-have for any barbecue enthusiast. By following this simple recipe, you can bring this recipe tasty and delicious of the South to your own kitchen.
Enjoy the sweet and tangy goodness of authentic this BBQ sauce on all your favorite grilled meats!
Memphis BBQ Sauce
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Jar or container for storage
Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon molasses
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon celery seed
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 2 tablespoons canola oil
- Salt and black pepper adjust to taste
Instructions
- Combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar in a saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce, molasses, yellow mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, celery seed, and chili powder.
- Drizzle in canola oil while stirring continuously to create a smooth consistency.
- Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes to meld flavors. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
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.