Hickory Brown Sugar BBQ Sauce
Smoky, tangy barbecue sauce with ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and hickory liquid smoke. Brown sugar provides sweetness while Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard add depth. Simmered low to thicken and meld flavors. Use as a glaze, marinade, or dipping sauce for grilled meats and vegetables.
Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ¼ cup hickory liquid smokemesquite liquid smoke1:1seasoning
different smoke profile
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper(optional)
Instructions
- 1
Whisk together ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, hickory liquid smoke, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper if using.
- 2
Place saucepan over medium heat and bring mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
- 3
Reduce heat to low and cook until thickened to desired consistency, about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- 4
Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- 5
Remove from heat and cool slightly before serving.
Tips
Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking and ensure even thickening.
Let sauce cool slightly before serving to allow flavors to set.
Good to Know
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for longer storage.
Prepare up to 2 weeks ahead and store refrigerated.
Use as a dipping sauce, marinade, or glaze for grilled meats and vegetables.
Common Mistakes
Do not skip stirring occasionally during cooking to avoid burning on the bottom.
Do not rush the simmering process to avoid incomplete flavor development.
Substitutions
different smoke profile