This Blue Ribbon BBQ Sauce Recipe isn’t just another sauce. It’s a champion, a true prize-winner in my kitchen. I dedicated countless hours to perfecting my Blue Ribbon BBQ Sauce Recipe.
My quest was for a sauce that was a masterpiece of flavor, a symphony of sweet, tangy, and smoky notes. This isn’t a sauce I just whipped up; it’s a creation born from passion. I know you will taste the difference.
It delivers that perfect, award-winning flavor directly to your grill. Every time I make this sauce, I feel a great sense of pride. It is an absolute favorite.
Blue Ribbon BBQ Sauce Recipe
This Blue Ribbon BBQ Sauce recipe delivers a perfect blend of tangy, sweet, and smoky flavors that stand out in any barbecue dish. It starts with a rich tomato base, enhanced by molasses and brown sugar for deep sweetness.
Apple cider vinegar adds a bright tang, while smoked paprika and a touch of cayenne bring smoky warmth and subtle heat.
Simple ingredients come together in just 40 minutes, creating a thick, smooth sauce that clings beautifully to ribs, chicken, or pulled pork.
This Blue Ribbon BBQ Sauce Recipe is my secret weapon for turning everyday BBQ into something special and award-worthy.
How To Prepare Blue Ribbon BBQ Sauce Recipe?
To make this Blue Ribbon BBQ Sauce Recipe perfectly, I’ve laid out each step clearly so it’s easy to follow. I’ve also listed the kitchen tools I personally use to save time and effort.
Doesn’t stress if you don’t have everything just use what you do have. You’ll still end up with a rich, delicious sauce!
Recipe Details
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Course: Condiment
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American (Southern-style BBQ)
Yield: Approximately 3 cups
Kitchen Utensils
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Storage container or bottle
Ingredients
- 1½ cups ketchup
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup molasses
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon prepared mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions
Step 1:
Place a medium saucepan over medium heat and warm the vegetable oil. Add the onion powder and garlic powder, letting them sizzle for about 2 minutes until they release their fragrance.
Step 2:
Stir in the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, molasses, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, mustard, smoked paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper (if you like some heat). Mix everything together until well combined.
Step 3:
Turn the heat up just enough to bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once it bubbles, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will gradually thicken and develop rich, smoky-sweet flavors.
Step 4:
Remove the pan from the heat and allow the sauce to cool to room temperature. Pour it into a clean jar or bottle and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2 weeks, ready for whenever you need a delicious homemade sauce.
Nutrition Facts Of Blue Ribbon BBQ Sauce Recipe
| Nutrition | Amounts |
|---|---|
| Calories | 35 kcal |
| Total Fat | 0.5 g |
| Sodium | 200 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 9 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugars | 8 g |
| Protein | 0.5 g |
Why You’ll Love This Blue Ribbon BBQ Sauce Recipe
You’ll love this Blue Ribbon BBQ Sauce recipe because it perfectly balances sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors. It’s easy to make with simple ingredients you probably already have.
The Blue Ribbon BBQ Sauce Recipe thickens nicely and clings to meat, giving every bite rich, bold flavor. It works great on ribs, chicken, or pulled pork.
Best of all, it tastes like a competition-level sauce without the hassle. I make it often because it elevates any BBQ meal with authentic, homemade goodness.
Why My Recipe Works
My Blue Ribbon BBQ Sauce recipe works because it uses a perfect balance of ingredients that create layers of flavor sweetness from molasses and brown sugar, tang from apple cider vinegar, and smoky depth from smoked paprika.
The slow simmering lets the flavors meld and the sauce thicken to just the right consistency. I keep the ingredient list straightforward, so each element shines without overpowering the others.
This Blue Ribbon BBQ Sauce Recipe careful balance and attention to detail make the sauce taste rich, bold, and professional every time.
Usage Suggestions Blue Ribbon BBQ Sauce Recipe
The “Blue Ribbon” BBQ sauce is so versatile; its uses are practically endless. Its perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors makes it a star in a variety of dishes. Here are some suggestions for how to use this fantastic homemade sauce:
◆ Glazing: Brush the sauce on ribs, chicken wings, or pork chops during the last 5–10 minutes of cooking. The sugars in the sauce will caramelize, creating a beautiful and flavorful glaze.
◆ Marinade: Use it as a marinade for chicken, beef, or pork. For maximum flavor, marinate for at least a few hours before grilling.
◆ Basting: Baste grilled meats, like brisket or chicken, with the sauce throughout the last stage of cooking to add layers of flavor.
Expert Tips
1. Taste the sauce as it simmers. If it’s too sweet, add more apple cider vinegar. If it’s too tangy, stir in a bit more brown sugar.
2. The amount of cayenne pepper can be increased or decreased to your preference. For a milder sauce, omit the cayenne. For more heat, add a little extra hot sauce, chili powder, or crushed red pepper flakes.
3. Simmer the sauce until it reaches your desired consistency, usually 20–25 minutes. However, be careful not to cook it for too long or at too high a temperature, as the sugars can burn. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
4. For a perfectly smooth consistency, let the sauce cool slightly after simmering, then use an immersion blender or a regular blender to purée it until silky.
5. This sauce tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had more time to meld. You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks
Variations Of Blue Ribbon BBQ Sauce Recipe
➤ For a smoky flavor: For a deeper, richer smoke flavor, try adding some chipotle in adobo sauce, which will also add heat.
➤ For a thinner mop sauce: Some people prefer a thinner sauce for basting meats on the grill. You can add a little water or a bit more apple cider vinegar until you reach the desired consistency.
➤ For a bourbon twist: Add a splash of your favorite bourbon to the sauce before simmering to create a rich, boozy depth of flavor. If you want the alcohol to cook off, add it at the beginning of the simmer.
➤ To go gluten-free: The recipe is naturally gluten-free, but it is important to ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free. Brands like Lea & Perris and Wizard’s are often gluten-free.
➤ Make it extra tangy: To create a classic Carolina-style tangy sauce, increase the amount of apple cider vinegar and dial back the molasses and brown sugar.
How To Store Leftovers
When I have leftover Blue Ribbon BBQ Sauce Recipe, I always store it in a clean glass jar or airtight container. I let the sauce cool completely before selling it to keep the flavors fresh and prevent spoilage. Then, I pop it into the fridge, where it stays good for up to two weeks.
If I want to keep it longer, I freeze small portions in ice cube trays perfect for when I just need a little sauce later. This way, I never waste any of my homemade BBQ goodness!
FAQs For Blue Ribbon BBQ Sauce Recipe
Can I prepare this Blue Ribbon BBQ Sauce in advance?
Yes! In fact, making the sauce a day ahead enhances the flavors as they have time to blend and deepen. Just store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator, and it will taste even better the next day.
How long can I store the sauce safely?
When kept in an airtight container in the fridge, this BBQ sauce stays fresh and flavorful for up to two weeks. Always give it a quick stir before using, and check for any off smells before serving.
Is it possible to freeze the BBQ sauce?
Definitely! Freezing the sauce in small portions, like ice cube trays or freezer-safe bags, lets you thaw just the amount you need. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer without losing quality.
How spicy is this Blue Ribbon BBQ Sauce?
The sauce has a gentle, smoky heat thanks to cayenne pepper, but it’s mild enough for most palates. You can easily adjust the spice level by adding more cayenne or hot sauce if you want a bolder kick.
Can I use this sauce as a marinade?
Absolutely! This sauce works great both as a marinade to infuse meats with flavor before cooking and as a finishing glaze to brush on while grilling or serving. Its balanced sweetness and tang complement pork, chicken, and beef wonderfully.
Conclusion
This amazing Blue Ribbon BBQ Sauce recipe is one I’m proud to share with everyone who loves bold, delicious flavors. It’s easy to make and perfect for serving with all your favorite grilled dishes.
After trying this Blue Ribbon BBQ Sauce Recipe, I found so much success impressing friends and family with its rich, tangy, and smoky taste. I’m confident you’ll enjoy it just as much as I do.
Give it a try, and let this Blue Ribbon BBQ Sauce Recipe become your new secret weapon for unforgettable BBQ meals!
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Blue Ribbon BBQ Sauce Recipe
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Storage container or bottle
Ingredients
- 1½ cups ketchup
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup molasses
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon prepared mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for heat
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions
Step 1:
- Place a medium saucepan over medium heat and warm the vegetable oil. Add the onion powder and garlic powder, letting them sizzle for about 2 minutes until they release their fragrance.
Step 2:
- Stir in the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, molasses, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, mustard, smoked paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper (if you like some heat). Mix everything together until well combined.
Step 3:
- Turn the heat up just enough to bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once it bubbles, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will gradually thicken and develop rich, smoky-sweet flavors.
Step 4:
- Remove the pan from the heat and allow the sauce to cool to room temperature. Pour it into a clean jar or bottle and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2 weeks, ready for whenever you need a delicious homemade sauce.
Notes
Nutrition Facts Of Blue Ribbon BBQ Sauce Recipe
| Nutrition | Amounts |
|---|---|
| Calories | 35 kcal |
| Total Fat | 0.5 g |
| Sodium | 200 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 9 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugars | 8 g |
| Protein | 0.5 g |