Cajun BBQ Sauce
Ingredients
4 cups
servings
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 2 cups chopped onions
- 1/2 cup butter or margarine
- 2 cups ketchup
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 cup vinegar
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cayenne
- 4 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
- fresh chopped jalapeno (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook garlic and onion in the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat until tender but not brown, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add remaining ingredients (ketchup, water, vinegar, sugar, salt, cayenne, and Worcestershire sauce) and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens slightly.
- Serve with grilled burgers and hot dogs. If you like hot, increase cayenne to 2 teaspoons and/or add two fresh chopped jalapenos.
Common Problems and Solutions
Q: Why is my sauce too thin?
A: Let it simmer longer to reduce and thicken, or start with tomato sauce instead of half the water for a thicker base.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes! This sauce keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks and the flavors actually improve after a day or two.
Tips and Techniques
For a smokier flavor, add 1-2 teaspoons of liquid smoke. You can also blend the finished sauce for a smoother consistency if you prefer it without onion chunks.
Ingredient Substitutions
- butter: olive oil or vegetable oil
- cayenne pepper: hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes
- fresh jalapeno: pickled jalapenos or serrano peppers
Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon for stirring
Historical Context
Louisiana cooks have long added their own spicy twist to traditional BBQ sauces, incorporating the cayenne and bold seasonings that define Cajun cooking.
