Whiskey BBQ Sauce
Whiskey BBQ Sauce is a rich and flavorful condiment that combines the sweet, tangy elements of traditional BBQ sauce with the deep, mellow notes of whiskey, typically bourbon.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Stirring spoon
Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup whiskey I recommend bourbon for its smooth flavor
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar packed
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for a spicy kick
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- In your saucepan, mix together the ketchup, bourbon, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and honey. This mixture is the base of your sauce, providing a balance of sweetness and acidity that is crucial for any good BBQ sauce.
- Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard. These ingredients add complexity and a slight tanginess that enhances the overall flavor profile of the sauce.
- Incorporate the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you’re opting for a bit of heat. The smoked paprika, in particular, offers a smoky undertone that’s perfect for barbecue.
- Bring your sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes. Keep stirring occasionally to ensure the sauce cooks evenly and doesn’t stick to the pan.
- Once your sauce has thickened to your liking, taste it and adjust the seasoning with salt or more spices if needed. Remove from heat and allow it to cool.
Notes
You can use maple syrup instead of honey or brown sugar.