Open Pit BBQ Sauce Recipe
The Open Pit BBQ Sauce recipe combines tangy vinegar, sweet ketchup, and savory spices like garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. It’s simmered until thick and flavorful, perfect for grilling meats like chicken or ribs. This homemade sauce offers a rich, smoky, and slightly spicy taste.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk or spoon for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife for cutting if needed (for lemon juice)
Ingredients
- 1 cup Heinz ketchup
- 7 oz vinegar a mix of 3.5 oz rice vinegar and 3.5 oz champagne vinegar for depth
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard preferably organic like Annie’s
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard additional for a tangy flavor
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon finely ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon finely ground red pepper
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper for a spicy kick
- 1 tablespoon molasses for a rich, deep flavor
Instructions
Combine the Vinegar and Ketchup:
- In a medium saucepan, pour 1 cup of Heinz ketchup and 7 oz of the vinegar mixture (rice and champagne vinegars). Stir them together to combine the liquids.
Add Mustards and Sweeteners:
- Stir in the 1 tablespoon of yellow mustard and the ¼ cup of packed brown sugar. This combination will provide the tangy and sweet base for the sauce.
Incorporate Worcestershire Sauce and Lemon Juice:
- Pour in 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Stir to blend well, ensuring the ingredients are fully incorporated.
Season with Spices:
- Add the 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of finely ground black pepper, 1 teaspoon of finely ground red pepper, and ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Stir to combine, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed in the mixture.
Add Molasses for Depth:
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of molasses. This ingredient adds a deep, rich flavor to balance the acidity and sweetness of the other ingredients.
Simmer and Adjust:
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently. Let it cook for 25–30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding a little more vinegar for tanginess or sugar for sweetness if preferred.
Notes
❖ Adjust Heat: If you prefer a spicier sauce, feel free to add more cayenne pepper or even a dash of hot sauce. On the other hand, if you want a milder version, simply omit the cayenne pepper.
❖ Storage: This BBQ sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, making it even tastier with time.
❖ Vegan-friendly Option: The recipe is naturally vegan when you use a plant-based Worcestershire sauce (check the label to ensure it’s vegan). You can also substitute the brown sugar with maple syrup or coconut sugar for a more natural sweetener.