Kansas City – Style Sauce

This classic Kansas City-style barbecue sauce delivers a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors. Made with a base of rich ketchup, molasses, and brown sugar, it&# 226;ÂÂs thickened to a glossy consistency that clings beautifully to meats. Aromatic spices like mustard, ginger, and allspice add depth, while a hint of liquid smoke enhances the smoky profile. Ideal for slathering on ribs, chicken, or pork shoulder, this sauce is also great for dipping or marinating. Easy to make at home, it offers a customizable twist on a timeless American favorite.

Cooking Method: Boiling, Smoking, Stewing

Cuisine: American

Courses: Sauces & Condiments

Difficulty: Intermediate

Servings: 8

Calories: 171.0

Dietary: Gluten-free, Vegan, Vegetarian

Description

This classic Kansas City-style barbecue sauce delivers a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors. Made with a base of rich ketchup, molasses, and brown sugar, it&# 226;ÂÂs thickened to a glossy consistency that clings beautifully to meats. Aromatic spices like mustard, ginger, and allspice add depth, while a hint of liquid smoke enhances the smoky profile. Ideal for slathering on ribs, chicken, or pork shoulder, this sauce is also great for dipping or marinating. Easy to make at home, it offers a customizable twist on a timeless American favorite.

Ingredients

3/4 cup Light brown sugar, packed
2 tsp Chili seasoning
1 tsp Dry mustard
1/2 tsp Ginger, ground
1/4 tsp Allspice, ground
1/4 tsp Cayenne pepper
1/4 tsp Mace, ground
1/4 tsp Black pepper, fresh ground
1 cup White distilled vinegar
1/4 cup Molasses
1/4 cup Water
32 oz Ketchup
3 tsp Liquid smoke (optional)

Directions

1
In a large saucepan, combine the brown sugar, chili seasoning, dry mustard, ginger, allspice, cayenne pepper, mace, and black pepper.
2
Add the vinegar, molasses, water, and liquid smoke (if using) to the saucepan.
3
Stir the mixture until all dry ingredients are fully dissolved.
4
Add the ketchup and stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
5
Bring the sauce to a boil over high heat, stirring constantly to prevent spattering.
6
Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the sauce simmer for 30 minutes.
7
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 8

Amount Per Serving
Calories 171.0kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 0.0g0%
Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 29.7mg2%
Total Carbohydrate 44.1g15%
Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
Sugars 44.1g
Protein 0.0g0%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Store the cooled sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

For a thicker consistency, simmer uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes.

Adjust the cayenne pepper amount to control the spice level.

Liquid smoke is optional but adds a distinct smoky flavor; omit if you prefer a purely tomato-based profile.

Keywords: barbecue, sauce, kansas city, bbq, grilling, ribs, chicken, pork, smoky, sweet, tangy, molasses, ketchup, spices, homemade, marinade, dipping, american, classic, vinegar

Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/kansas-city-style-sauce-paul-kirk/