Kansas City barbecue sauces are thick, tomato-based sauces that are just as sweet as they are spicy. Endless variations are possible, but the sweet-thick-tomatoey elements need to be there for KC BBQ. This is an easy recipe and helps you avoid the MSG and other ingredients in store-bought varieties.
Ingredients
- 2 cups tomato sauce or ketchup
- 1/2 cup apple juice
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 5 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp paprika
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp chipotle powder (optional)
- 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
- salt (to taste)
- Cayenne to taste
Directions
- Heat the butter in a pot over medium heat for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the onion and sauté until it begins to brown.
- Add the garlic and sauté for another 2 minutes.
- Pour in the remaining ingredients and stir well to combine.
- Simmer slowly for at least 30 minutes, and up to 2 hours.
- Adjust the heat and salt levels with the cayenne and salt right before you plan to use this sauce, which is great on ribs, chicken and pork shoulder.
Makes about 2 1/2 cups.
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