Lean and Mean Texas Barbecue Sauce
Bring the bold, smoky flavors of the Lone Star State to your table with this "Lean and Mean Texas Barbecue Sauce." Crafted with wholesome ingredients like tangy apple cider vinegar, rich tomato paste, and the natural sweetness of honey and molasses, this sauce delivers authentic Texas barbecue flavor without unnecessary additives. A blend of smoked paprika, chili powder, and a hint of cayenne pepper (optional) provides just the right amount of kick, while garlic, onion, and cumin round out its earthy, robust profile. Ready in just 25 minutes, this easy-to-make sauce is perfect for slathering over ribs, brisket, or grilled chicken, or for serving as a dip on the side. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or looking for a homemade twist on a classic, this recipe is your go-to for rich, flavorful Texas-style sauces that are lean, mean, and utterly delicious.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 6 ounces Tomato paste
- 1 cup Apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup Water
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons Molasses
- 2 tablespoons Honey
- 1 tablespoon Yellow mustard
- 2 teaspoons Smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Chili powder
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion powder
- 0.5 teaspoons Ground cumin
- 0.5 teaspoons Black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoons Salt
- 0.25 teaspoons Cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
In a medium saucepan, combine the tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, and water. Whisk together until smooth.
Add Worcestershire sauce, molasses, honey, and yellow mustard. Stir well to incorporate all the liquid ingredients.
Stir in the smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper, if using.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring frequently to avoid scorching.
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Taste and adjust seasonings as needed—a pinch more salt, vinegar, or honey can help balance flavors to your liking.
Remove the saucepan from heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature. The sauce will thicken slightly as it cools.
Transfer to a clean jar or airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks. Serve warm or at room temperature alongside your favorite barbecue dishes.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
519 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 2.5 g | 3% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.4 g | 2% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1952 mg | 85% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 116.6 g | 42% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 11.1 g | 40% | |
| Total Sugars | 90.0 g | ||
| Protein | 9.9 g | 20% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 260 mg | 20% | |
| Iron | 12.3 mg | 68% | |
| Potassium | 2990 mg | 64% | |
*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.
