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If you’re looking to kick things up a notch, a good sauce can be a game changer. While I always love a good dry rub and seasoning – savory, sweet, or spicy sauces can bring your dish to the next level. Take a peek at some favorites, and add amazing flavor all year round
Adding flavor to your barbecued foods is a must, and since I’ve done a deep dive into BBQ rubs, it’s seems necessary to jump into barbecue sauces as well. They’re the perfect addition to any great barbecue, adding flavor, helping to keep things from drying out, and adding a delicious layer of complexity to meats such as beef, chicken, pork, and even veggies. The tough part? It might seem like there are countless variations and options when it comes to barbecue sauces, each with their own unique flavor profile and regional spin. But if you love to experiment with flavor, that’s the best part!
When getting down to basics, you’ll find that the primary ingredients in most barbecue sauces are tomatoes, vinegar, sugar, and spices. However, the amount and type of each ingredient really can vary widely. Depending on the recipe and the end game flavor goal, the result is typically a thick, rich sauce that you can either brush on the meat during cooking, add it at the tail end, or even serve it on the side for dipping.
Barbecue sauces are often closely tied to regional styles of barbecue. For example, in the Carolinas, mustard or vinegar-based sauces are popular, while in Texas, a tomato paste-based sauce with a touch of sweetness and heat is preferred. The idea here is to complement, not compete. Kansas City-style barbecue sauces typically feature a combination of tomato, vinegar, and molasses, while over in Memphis, their sauces are known for their tangy, mustard-based flavors.
You can find regional variations, or a wide variety of sauces available commercially, with options that are mild and sweet, or spicy and tangy. Some are made with natural ingredients, while others may contain preservatives or artificial flavors.
Whether you’re a fan of traditional, homemade barbecue sauces or prefer to experiment with different store-bought varieties, there is no shortage of options to choose from. Experimenting with different types of sauces, (and even mixing some) can be a fun way to explore new flavor profiles, find your new favorite and create your own unique barbecue creations.
Here are a few tips to help you get started:
Brush it on your meats: Whether you’re grilling, smoking, or roasting your meats, brushing on a layer of BBQ sauce can help to add moisture and flavor. You can hit it with a basting brush, or even just a spoon. I try to apply the sauce as evenly as possible – and don’t be afraid to add extra sauce towards the end of cooking for a caramelized finish. Fab!
Dip it on the side: Simply serve it on the side for dipping. This is a great option if you’re grilling up chicken wings or veggie skewers. An added bonus is that it allows everyone to customize their own flavor experience. I like to set out a few different types of sauces for variety. Everyone likes options!
Mix it in: BBQ sauce doesn’t just have to be used as a condiment. You can also mix it into meatloaf, burgers, or meatballs to add an extra layer of flavor. However, if you decide to mix things up (literally), just be sure to adjust your recipe accordingly, as adding too much sauce can take your mixture into soggy city territory. Not the business.
Get creative: Since, BBQ sauce is a versatile ingredient, sometimes I like to get a little creative with it. Try mixing it with mayo or sour cream for a tasty dip, or use it to marinate tofu or tempeh for your vegetarian pals. I’ve used BBQ sauce when grilling up some pizzas, or mixed sauces with a little heat into mac and cheese for a fun twist.
Overall, using BBQ sauce is all about having fun and experimenting with different flavor combinations. Most importantly, spiciness is subjective. What I consider to be not be spicy, might be too much heat for the next person. We’ve picked out a few online favorites below, so go ahead and get saucy!
