St Louis BBQ Sauce Recipe
The St Louis BBQ sauce recipe is a classic American barbecue sauce known for its sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy flavor profile. It typically consists of a base of ketchup or tomato sauce combined with vinegar, brown sugar, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, and a blend of spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper. Some variations may also include mustard or hot sauce for added depth of flavor. This sauce is commonly used to glaze grilled or smoked meats, particularly ribs, chicken, and pork, giving them a rich and savory coating that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. St Louis BBQ sauce is a beloved staple in barbecue culture, offering a balance of sweetness and acidity that enhances the natural flavors of the meat.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mason jar or airtight container for storage
Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste for spiciness
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, mix together the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder over medium heat.
- Stir in the water to thin out the sauce and allow all the flavors to meld together.
- Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Adjust the cayenne pepper according to your desired level of spiciness.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over low heat. Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more sugar for sweetness, more vinegar for tanginess, or more spices for depth of flavor.
- If the sauce is too thin, continue simmering until it reaches your desired consistency. Remember, it will thicken slightly as it cools. Once done, remove from heat and let it cool before using.
- Use the sauce immediately as a glaze or dipping sauce for your favorite grilled meats, or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Notes
Feel free to customize this St. Louis BBQ sauce recipe to suit your taste buds. Whether you like it sweeter, spicier, or smokier, don’t hesitate to experiment with the ingredients until you find the perfect balance for your palate.