If you’re a BBQ lover like me, you know that the right BBQ sauce can make or break a meal. One sauce that has always stood out to me is the legendary Salt Lick BBQ Sauce Recipe.
It’s the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, smoky, and a touch of heat that elevates any grilled dish. Inspired by the legendary Salt Lick BBQ in Driftwood, Texas, this sauce offers that perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and slightly spicy flavors.
In this blog post, I’m going to walk you through my Salt Lick BBQ Sauce recipe—an easy, delicious, and customizable version of the famous Texas-style sauce.
I’ll explain everything from prep to cooking time, along with some tips and variations to make it your own.
What Makes Salt Lick BBQ Sauce Recipe Special?
The Salt Lick BBQ Sauce Recipe stands out for its distinct flavor profile. It is rich, smooth, and slightly tangy, with a delicate balance of sweetness and a little spice.
This sauce is often paired with Salt Lick BBQ’s tender, wood-smoked meats, and now you can recreate the flavor at home.
The key ingredients include tomato sauce, apple cider vinegar, molasses, and a variety of seasonings. Unlike most store-bought sauces, Salt Lick’s version isn’t too sugary, offering a flavorful kick without overwhelming the taste buds.
How To Prepare Salt Lick BBQ Sauce Recipe?
Recipe Overview
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Course: Sauce, Condiment
- Cuisine: American, BBQ
- Difficulty: Easy
- Yield: About 1.5 cups (12 servings)
Equipment Needed
- Saucepan,
- whisk,
- measuring spoons and cups,
- knife,
- cutting board
Ingredients
This Salt Lick BBQ Sauce Recipe uses common ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika (for that smoky flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (for a mild kick)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 2 tablespoons water (to adjust consistency)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop your garlic, and if you’re using any fresh ingredients, make sure they’re ready for use.
2. Combine All Ingredients in a Saucepan
In a medium saucepan, pour in the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard. Stir in the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if you want a bit more heat).
3. Cook the Sauce
Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir the ingredients together and bring the mixture to a simmer. Keep stirring occasionally to avoid any burning or sticking to the bottom of the pan.
4. Let the Sauce Simmer
Allow the sauce to simmer for about 20-25 minutes. The flavors will blend and thicken as it cooks. If you find the sauce is too thick, you can add water a tablespoon at a time to reach your desired consistency.
5. Taste and Adjust
Once the sauce has thickened, taste it. If you want it sweeter, add a bit more brown sugar. For more tang, a little extra vinegar will do the trick. Stir to combine, then remove from heat.
6. Cool and Store
Let the sauce cool before using it. Transfer it to a clean bottle or jar and store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Note
This BBQ sauce is incredibly versatile and easy to adjust. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, increase the brown sugar. For a spicier version, don’t hesitate to add more cayenne or your favorite hot sauce.
You can also store this sauce in a sealed container in the fridge for up to two weeks. Make sure to give it a good stir before using, as some separation may occur.
Nutrition Amount (Per Serving)
Here’s a rough estimate of the nutrition per serving (based on a 1-tablespoon serving size):
Nutrition | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 30 |
Fat | 0g |
Carbohydrates | 7g |
Sugar | 6g |
Protein | 0g |
Sodium | 250mg |
Fiber | 0g |
Tips And Tricks For The Perfect Salt Lick BBQ Sauce
1. Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, increase the amount of honey or brown sugar. You can always taste as you go to find the perfect balance.
2. Control the Heat: Add cayenne pepper for a spicy kick, or use a bit of smoked paprika for subtle heat with a smoky flavor.
3. Simmer for Richness: Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and thicken for a richer taste.
4. Store for Flavor: Allow the sauce to sit in the fridge for at least a few hours, or even overnight, to let the flavors develop and deepen.
5. Try Different Vinegars: While apple cider vinegar is ideal, experimenting with different vinegars like balsamic or red wine can add unique flavor notes to your sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This Salt Lick BBQ Sauce Recipe enhances a wide range of dishes. It’s ideal for BBQ staples like ribs, pulled pork, and grilled chicken, giving them a tangy, smoky kick.
You can also use it as a dip for crispy fries, onion rings, or grilled veggies. For a fun twist, drizzle it over BBQ chicken pizza or glaze roasted potatoes.
This sauce brings a burst of flavor to any meal, making it a must-have for your next cookout or dinner.
How To Use Salt Lick BBQ Sauce Recipe
Salt Lick BBQ Sauce Recipe is perfect for glazing grilled meats like ribs, chicken, or pulled pork. Simply brush it on your meat during the last few minutes of grilling to add a delicious layer of flavor.
It also makes a great dipping sauce for fries, onion rings, or even vegetables. For a twist, try using it on BBQ pizza, as a marinade, or drizzled over roasted potatoes for an added flavor boost.
How Old Is The Salt Lick BBQ?
The Salt Lick BBQ Sauce Recipe restaurant, located in Driftwood, Texas, was founded in 1967 by Scott Roberts.
Over the years, it has become an iconic destination for BBQ lovers, known for its delicious meats, rustic ambiance, and the signature Salt Lick BBQ Sauce.
Now, with nearly 60 years of history, it continues to serve up mouthwatering BBQ to locals and tourists alike. The family-owned business is a staple of Texas BBQ culture and a must-visit for enthusiasts.
How To Make BBQ Sauce Tastier?
To make your BBQ sauce tastier, experiment with balancing flavors. Add a touch of honey or brown sugar for extra sweetness, and a bit of apple cider vinegar or mustard for tang.
A few drops of hot sauce or cayenne pepper can introduce some heat, while liquid smoke adds depth. Don’t forget to incorporate spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder for complexity.
Allow the sauce to simmer, as the flavors deepen and meld together with time.
Here Are Some BBQ Sauce Recipes You Might Enjoy
Bachan BBQ Sauce Recipe || Japanese-Style
Blackberry BBQ Sauce Recipe | Fruity Twist
Japanese BBQ Sauce (Yakitori Tare)
Chick-Fil-A Honey Roasted BBQ Sauce Recipe | Sweet and Smoky
Famous Franklin BBQ Sauce Recipe
FAQs About Salt Lick BBQ Sauce
Can I store Salt Lick BBQ Sauce?
Yes, you can store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It actually tastes even better after sitting for a day or two, as the flavors have time to meld together.
Is the Salt Lick BBQ Sauce spicy?
The sauce has a mild, smoky flavor with a slight tang. If you prefer more heat, you can add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to make it spicier.
Can I use Salt Lick BBQ Sauce as a marinade?
Absolutely! Salt Lick BBQ Sauce works wonderfully as a marinade for meats like chicken, pork, or beef. Simply coat the meat and let it sit for a few hours before grilling or roasting.
Can I make Salt Lick BBQ Sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge. The sauce will keep for up to a week and can be reheated when ready to use.
What foods pair well with Salt Lick BBQ Sauce?
Salt Lick BBQ Sauce pairs well with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, BBQ chicken pizza, fries, onion rings, and roasted vegetables. It’s versatile enough to complement almost any savory dish!
Conclusion
Now you know how to make your own Salt Lick BBQ Sauce Recipe from scratch! It’s easy, flavorful, and incredibly customizable to suit your preferences.
It’s easy to make, flavorful, and gives you that authentic Texas BBQ taste without having to leave your kitchen.
So, next time you fire up the grill, don’t forget to whip up this tangy, smoky BBQ sauce to complement your favorite dishes. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought sauces again!
Salt Lick BBQ Sauce Recipe
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring spoons and cups
- knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar packed
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon mustard yellow or Dijon
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika for that smoky flavor
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder for a mild kick
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for heat
- 2 tablespoons water to adjust consistency
Instructions
Prepare Your Ingredients
- Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop your garlic, and if you’re using any fresh ingredients, make sure they’re ready for use.
Combine All Ingredients in a Saucepan
- In a medium saucepan, pour in the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard. Stir in the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if you want a bit more heat).
Cook the Sauce
- Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir the ingredients together and bring the mixture to a simmer. Keep stirring occasionally to avoid any burning or sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Let the Sauce Simmer
- Allow the sauce to simmer for about 20-25 minutes. The flavors will blend and thicken as it cooks. If you find the sauce is too thick, you can add water a tablespoon at a time to reach your desired consistency.
Taste and Adjust
- Once the sauce has thickened, taste it. If you want it sweeter, add a bit more brown sugar. For more tang, a little extra vinegar will do the trick. Stir to combine, then remove from heat.
Cool and Store
- Let the sauce cool before using it. Transfer it to a clean bottle or jar and store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.