Kansas City Barbeque Sauce

Are you ready to level up your barbecue game? This Kansas City-style BBQ sauce is a game-changer, with its sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors that will make your taste buds do the happy dance. It's perfect for slathering on ribs, chicken, brisket, or whatever else you like to grill or smoke.

Ingredients

• 1 cup ketchup
• 3 cups tomato sauce
• 1 1/4 cups brown sugar
• 5/8 cup red wine vinegar
• 1/2 cup unsulfured molasses
• 4 teaspoons hickory flavored liquid smoke
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 large cloves of minced garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon of minced onion
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon celery seed
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon celery salt
• 1 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper

Directions

Step 1: Mix the Sauce

In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the ketchup, tomato sauce, brown sugar, red wine vinegar, molasses, liquid smoke, and butter. Mix well to combine.

Step 2: Simmer the Sauce

Reduce heat to low and simmer for up to 20 minutes. If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer longer; if you prefer a thinner sauce, reduce the simmering time. You can also add a bit of water if necessary to achieve the desired consistency.

Suggested Variations

• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick
• Use apple cider vinegar instead of red wine vinegar for a slightly different flavor profile
• Add some diced onions or bell peppers to the sauce for added depth and texture
• Experiment with different types of molasses, such as blackstrap or sorghum, for unique flavors