The Frugal Gourmet’s Southern Barbecue Sauce Recipe ๐
Overview:
Prepare yourself for a taste bud sensation with “The Frugal Gourmet’s” Southern Barbecue Sauce. Straight from Jeff Smith’s culinary treasure trove, this recipe, originating in 1984, has stood the test of time, becoming a staple for any pulled pork barbecue enthusiast. This sauce is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, perfect for a variety of occasions, from potlucks to weeknight dinners. With its spicy kick and rich flavors, it’s sure to elevate any dish it graces. Plus, it’s easy to whip up, requiring just a handful of ingredients and a bit of patience. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover the magic of this beloved barbecue sauce!
Ingredients:
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 cup tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup prepared yellow mustard
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 1/8 cup liquid smoke
- 1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 1014
- Fat: 8.6g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 9269.7mg
- Carbohydrates: 224.8g
- Fiber: 14g
- Sugar: 189.9g
- Protein: 22.2g
Recipe Yield:
- 1 quart
Dietary Information:
- Suitable for vegetarians: No
- Suitable for vegans: No
- Gluten-free: Yes
Keywords:
Potluck, Spicy, Weeknight, Brunch, Stove Top, < 4 Hours, Easy
Instructions:
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Combine Ingredients: In a large saucepan, combine all the ingredients listed above. This includes the beef broth, tomato paste, salt, granulated sugar, brown sugar, prepared yellow mustard, white vinegar, liquid smoke, Worcestershire sauce, crushed red pepper flakes, and chili powder.
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Simmer Slowly: Place the saucepan over low heat and allow the mixture to simmer slowly, leaving it uncovered. Stir occasionally to ensure all the flavors meld together perfectly. This slow simmering process is crucial for achieving the desired thickness and depth of flavor in your barbecue sauce.
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Watch Closely: Keep a close eye on the sauce as it simmers. The cooking time typically ranges from 1 1/2 to 2 hours. However, it’s essential to monitor it closely, as it can burn if the heat is too high. Adjust the heat as needed to maintain a gentle simmer.
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Thicken: As the sauce simmers, it will gradually thicken, transforming into a luscious, velvety consistency. This is a sign that it’s ready to be enjoyed. Once you’ve reached the desired thickness, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool slightly before serving.
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Serve or Store: Your homemade Southern Barbecue Sauce is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it alongside your favorite barbecue dishes, such as pulled pork, ribs, or grilled chicken. Alternatively, transfer any leftovers to a clean jar or airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for future use. This sauce keeps well and can be enjoyed for days to come.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve this mouthwatering barbecue sauce alongside pulled pork sandwiches for a classic Southern-inspired meal.
- Use it as a marinade for grilled chicken or tofu, infusing your dishes with irresistible flavor.
- Drizzle it over roasted vegetables or baked potatoes for a delicious twist on traditional barbecue fare.
Tips:
- If you don’t have liquid smoke on hand, don’t worry! You can still achieve that smoky flavor by adding a touch of smoked paprika to the sauce.
- Adjust the level of spiciness to suit your preferences by increasing or decreasing the amount of crushed red pepper flakes and chili powder.
- For a thicker sauce, simmer it for a longer period, allowing more time for the liquids to reduce and the flavors to intensify.
- Be cautious when simmering the sauce, especially towards the end of the cooking process. Stir frequently and lower the heat if necessary to prevent burning.
Conclusion:
With its robust flavor profile and effortless preparation, “The Frugal Gourmet’s” Southern Barbecue Sauce is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, attending a potluck, or simply craving a taste of the South, this sauce delivers unbeatable taste with minimal effort. So fire up the grill, gather your friends and family, and get ready to indulge in barbecue bliss. With each savory bite, you’ll understand why this recipe has remained a beloved classic for decades. Enjoy! ๐ด๐ฅ
