Cola Bbq Sauce
Get ready to elevate your grilling game with this irresistibly sweet and smoky Cola BBQ Sauce! Combining the bold caramel notes of classic cola with tangy ketchup, brown sugar, and a splash of apple cider vinegar, this homemade barbecue sauce strikes the perfect balance of flavors. A hint of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and optional liquid smoke adds depth, while a quick simmer ensures a rich, thick texture that's perfect for glazing ribs, brushing onto grilled chicken, or simply serving as a dipping sauce. Ready in just 25 minutes, this easy recipe is a must-have for barbecue lovers looking to add a unique twist to their summer cookouts. Store a jar in the fridge and enjoy the ultimate homemade sauce for all your favorite recipes.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup cola (regular, not diet)
- 1 cup ketchup
- 0.25 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon liquid smoke (optional, for extra smokiness)
Instructions
In a medium-sized saucepan, pour in the cola and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Allow it to simmer for 5-7 minutes to slightly reduce and concentrate the flavor.
Once the cola has reduced slightly, lower the heat to medium-low and add the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to combine.
Add the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, ground black pepper, salt, and liquid smoke (if using). Whisk thoroughly to incorporate all the spices into the sauce.
Let the sauce simmer gently over low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The sauce should thicken slightly as it cooks.
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary (e.g., add more vinegar for tanginess or more sugar for sweetness).
Once the sauce reaches your desired consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
Transfer the sauce to a clean jar or container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Use the Cola BBQ Sauce as a marinade, glaze, or dipping sauce for your favorite meats, veggies, or snacks.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
488 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 0.4 g | 1% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.1 g | 0% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1833 mg | 80% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 127.1 g | 46% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.6 g | 6% | |
| Total Sugars | 105.4 g | ||
| Protein | 1.1 g | 2% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 71 mg | 5% | |
| Iron | 2.0 mg | 11% | |
| Potassium | 306 mg | 6% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
