Authentic Kansas City-Style BBQ Sauce Recipe for Grilling

When barbecue season rolls around, nothing beats the satisfaction of a homemade BBQ sauce. Kansas City-style barbecue sauce is the perfect starting point for your culinary adventure. This thick, sweet, and tangy tomato-based mixture is a crowd-pleaser that will elevate your grilling game.

The secret to crafting the perfect Kansas City-style sauce lies in balancing its key components. Ketchup forms the base, providing that classic deep tomato flavor. Molasses and brown sugar contribute sweetness and thickness, while a touch of vinegar adds a delightful tang. To keep the sweetness in check, we incorporate mustard and a blend of spices for that signature kick.

What makes this sauce a true gem is its versatility. Whether you’re slathering it on ribs, brushing it onto chicken, or using it as a dipping sauce, it’s guaranteed to impress. The sauce’s thickness allows it to sit proudly atop your chosen protein, creating a mouthwatering glaze that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Remember, due to its high sugar content, this sauce can caramelize quickly over high heat. When grilling, apply it lightly and keep a watchful eye to achieve that perfect char without burning. Now, let’s dive into creating this barbecue masterpiece!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tablespoon)
• 2 cups ketchup
• 1/3 cup molasses
• 1/3 cup dark brown sugar
• 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon chile powder
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Directions

1. Sauté the Aromatics

   Begin by melting the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add the finely chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, or until it becomes fragrant. This step builds a flavorful foundation for your sauce.

2. Combine and Simmer

   Now it’s time to bring all the flavors together. Add the ketchup, molasses, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, yellow mustard, chile powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to the saucepan. Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well combined. Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for approximately 30 minutes, stirring frequently. During this time, the sauce will thicken slightly and the flavors will meld beautifully.

3. Blend and Store

   Once the sauce has simmered and thickened to your liking, it’s time for the finishing touch. Transfer the sauce to a blender and blend until smooth. This step ensures a consistent texture throughout. Allow the sauce to cool to room temperature before transferring it to a jar. When stored in the refrigerator, your homemade Kansas City-style barbecue sauce will keep for up to a month, ready to enhance your grilled delights at a moment’s notice.

Congratulations! You’ve just created a batch of authentic Kansas City-style barbecue sauce. The beauty of homemade sauce lies in its adaptability – feel free to adjust the sweetness, tanginess, or heat to suit your personal taste. Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue or simply want to elevate your weeknight dinner, this sauce is sure to impress.

Remember, while this sauce is delicious right away, allowing it to rest in the refrigerator overnight can enhance its flavors even further. The ingredients will have time to meld, resulting in a more complex and satisfying taste profile.

So fire up that grill, grab your favorite cuts of meat, and get ready to experience the magic of Kansas City-style barbecue in your own home. Your taste buds (and your guests) will thank you!

Nutritional Facts