Transform your meals with this irresistible Sweet and Sassy Sauce—a perfect balance of bold and zesty flavors that will elevate everything from barbecue ribs to crispy chicken tenders. This quick, homemade sauce combines pantry staples like ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar with a medley of spices, including smoky paprika, garlic powder, and a hint of cayenne for a subtle kick. Sweetened with honey and balanced with the umami-rich notes of Worcestershire and soy sauce, it comes together in just 15 minutes, making it a go-to for weeknight dinners or weekend cookouts. Whether used as a dip, glaze, or marinade, this versatile sauce is sure to become a household favorite.
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, and water. Stir until the sugar begins to dissolve.
Add the apple cider vinegar, honey, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. Stir to incorporate all the liquid ingredients.
Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to combine the spices evenly.
Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking to the pan.
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the sauce cool for a few minutes.
Transfer the Sweet and Sassy Sauce to a jar or airtight container. It can be used immediately or stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Calories |
529 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 0.5 g | 1% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.1 g | 0% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1422 mg | 62% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 136.6 g | 50% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.9 g | 7% | |
| Total Sugars | 113.9 g | ||
| Protein | 2.0 g | 4% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 82 mg | 6% | |
| Iron | 2.5 mg | 14% | |
| Potassium | 365 mg | 8% | |
*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.