Barbecue Sauce

The next time you make BBQ pulled pork or chicken, definitely try making your own sauce. It makes such a huge difference from store-bought sauce and is really quite simple to do. Freeze and leftovers to use at a later date. This recipe makes about 7 cups.

Ingredients:
2 cups ketchup

2 cups tomato sauce

1 1/4 cups brown sugar

1 1/4 cups red wine vinegar

1/2 cup unsulphured molasses

2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces

4 teaspoons hickory flavored liquid smoke

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon chili powder

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon celery seed

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper

Directions:

In a large saucepan, over medium heat, mix together all the wet ingredients. Add the dry ingredients and stir to combine. Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce heat to low and allow to simmer for at least 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken as it simmers and again as it cools. Store in the refrigerator or freeze for later use. Use the sauce in any recipe that calls for barbecue sauce.

Adapted from Mel's Kitchen Cafe.