I’ve been meaning to try Aaron Franklin BBQ sauce recipe for a while now, especially for something to pair with beef plate ribs. This tomato-based sauce really hits the mark.
Known as Aaron Franklin’s Regular Sauce or Classic Sauce, it’s a great all-purpose BBQ sauce that offers a unique balance of flavors.
It has a bit of tang, a touch of sweetness, and just the right amount of heat. The ingredient list is a bit mysterious, but I’ve broken it down so you can enjoy it with ease.
This classic sauce is perfect for dunking your brisket or ribs, giving them an extra punch of flavor. You can serve it alongside any grilled meat or even brush it on just before taking the meat off the grill to create a delicious, caramelized glaze.
It’s ideal for pork, beef, or really any meat you plan to serve this season. If you’re looking to elevate your BBQ game, Aaron Franklin BBQ sauce recipe is definitely worth a try!
Why Is Franklin BBQ So Good?
Franklin Barbecue is known for its exceptional quality because of its meticulous attention to detail and dedication to traditional techniques.
Aaron Franklin uses top-tier meat, a custom-built smoker, and a slow-cooking method that infuses deep, smoky flavors.
The combination of perfectly seasoned rubs, patience during the cooking process, and a focus on quality ingredients results in tender, juicy brisket and other meats that are rich in flavor.
It’s this commitment to craft that makes Franklin BBQ stand out as one of the best in the business.
Aaron Franklin BBQ Sauce Recipe
Preparation Time, Cooking Time, Total Time
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Course, Difficulty, Cuisine, Calories, Yield
Course: Condiment, Sauce
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American, BBQ
Calories: 50 kcal
Yield: Approximately 2 cups
Kitchen Utensils
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small bowl for mixing (optional)
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups ketchup
- 1/2 cup white vinegar
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
- 1/4 cup dark soy sauce
- 2 tbsp + 1 ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 ½ tsp coarse black pepper
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 ½ tsp kosher salt
Instructions
1. Combine ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, add all the ingredients: ketchup, both vinegars, brown sugar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, chili powder, ground cumin, and kosher salt.
2. Cook the sauce:
Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir the mixture well. Bring the sauce to a simmer, making sure everything is fully combined.
3. Simmer and thicken:
Let the sauce simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will gradually thicken as it cooks. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning or over-thickening. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will become.
4. Taste and adjust:
Once the sauce has reached the desired thickness, taste it and adjust the seasonings if necessary. You can add more sugar if you like it sweeter, or more vinegar if you want a tangier flavor.
5. Cool and store:
Once the sauce is done, remove it from the heat and let it cool to room temperature. Transfer the sauce to an airtight container or jar. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks.
Special Note
Aaron Franklin BBQ sauce recipe is incredibly versatile. Not only does it pair beautifully with his Texas-style brisket, but it also works wonderfully with pork, chicken, or even as a dipping sauce for fries.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with it on your favorite grilled dishes. I love using this BBQ sauce to add a punch of flavor to burgers or ribs.
If you like your BBQ sauce with a little more heat, feel free to tweak the amount of cayenne pepper or hot sauce. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. You can make it as spicy or as mild as you prefer.
Tips And Tricks
1. Simmer Low and Slow: Cook the sauce on low heat and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes. This helps deepen the flavors and thicken the sauce without burning it.
2. Balance Sweet and Tangy: If you like your BBQ sauce more tangy, add a bit more vinegar; for a sweeter sauce, increase the dark brown sugar. Taste and adjust as you go.
3. Use Fresh Spices: For maximum flavor, use fresh spices, especially cumin and chili powder. This will give the sauce a more vibrant and aromatic flavor.
4. Blend for Smoothness: If you prefer a smoother texture, blend the sauce with an immersion blender after it cools to break down any chunks of spices or onion powder.
5. Let it Rest: Allow the sauce to sit in the fridge for a few hours (or overnight) before using. This gives the flavors time to meld and develop fully.
How To Use Your Aaron Franklin BBQ Sauce Recipe
Aaron Franklin BBQ sauce is incredibly versatile and can be used in many ways to elevate your BBQ dishes.
Brush it onto meats like brisket, ribs, or chicken during the last few minutes of grilling or smoking for a flavorful glaze. You can also serve it as a dipping sauce on the side for extra tangy goodness.
It pairs wonderfully with burgers, grilled vegetables, and even fries, making it a perfect all-around BBQ condiment. For an added twist, use it as a marinade or mix it into baked beans for a richer flavor.
How Do You Preserve Aaron Franklin BBQ Sauce Recipe ?
To preserve Aaron Franklin BBQ Sauce Recipe, allow it to cool completely after cooking, then transfer it to an airtight container or jar.
Store the sauce in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to 2-3 weeks. For longer storage, you can also freeze the sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Just be sure to let it thaw in the fridge before use. Always check for any signs of spoilage before using, especially if it has been stored for an extended period.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?
Yes, you can adjust the sweetness by adding more brown sugar if you prefer a sweeter sauce or reduce it for a less sugary flavor. You can also experiment with honey or maple syrup as alternatives.
Can I use a different type of vinegar?
While apple cider vinegar is recommended for its tangy flavor, you can use white vinegar or even balsamic vinegar as a substitute, though it may slightly alter the taste.
Can I make this sauce in advance?
Absolutely! The BBQ sauce actually improves in flavor after sitting for a day or two, allowing the spices to meld. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat it when needed.
Can I use this sauce for grilling?
Yes, this BBQ sauce is great for glazing meats while grilling. Brush it onto your ribs, chicken, or brisket during the last few minutes of cooking to give it a delicious, caramelized finish.
Can I make this BBQ sauce spicier?
If you like more heat, you can add extra chili powder, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the recipe. Just start small and taste as you go to get your preferred level of spiciness!
Conclusion
Aaron Franklin BBQ sauce recipe is a true game-changer for anyone looking to elevate their grilling. Its perfect balance of tang, sweetness, and heat makes it incredibly versatile, whether you’re slathering it on ribs, brisket, or pork.
The ingredient list might seem a bit unexpected, but it all comes together to create a rich, flavorful sauce that’s perfect for all your BBQ needs.
Whether you’re using it as a dipping sauce or brushing it on towards the end of grilling, it’s sure to add that extra burst of flavor.
If you’re aiming to impress at your next BBQ, this Aaron Franklin BBQ sauce recipe is definitely worth adding to your repertoire!
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Aaron Franklin BBQ Sauce Recipe
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small bowl for mixing (optional)
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups ketchup
- 1/2 cup white vinegar
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
- 1/4 cup dark soy sauce
- 2 tbsp + 1 ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 ½ tsp coarse black pepper
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 ½ tsp kosher salt
Instructions
Combine ingredients:
- In a medium saucepan, add all the ingredients: ketchup, both vinegars, brown sugar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, chili powder, ground cumin, and kosher salt.
Cook the sauce:
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir the mixture well. Bring the sauce to a simmer, making sure everything is fully combined.
Simmer and thicken:
- Let the sauce simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will gradually thicken as it cooks. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning or over-thickening. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will become.
Taste and adjust:
- Once the sauce has reached the desired thickness, taste it and adjust the seasonings if necessary. You can add more sugar if you like it sweeter, or more vinegar if you want a tangier flavor.
Cool and store:
- Once the sauce is done, remove it from the heat and let it cool to room temperature. Transfer the sauce to an airtight container or jar. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks.