If you're a barbecue sauce lover, you might want to try the hickory flavor. Made with a smoky, woodsy flavor, hickory barbecue sauce adds an extra layer of deliciousness to your dish. And the best part? Two tablespoons, or 34 grams, of hickory barbecue sauce only contains 45 calories.

Apart from calories, hickory barbecue sauce also contains some vitamins and minerals. For instance, it may contain small amounts of potassium, vitamin C, and iron. However, the exact nutritional value varies depending on the brand and recipe of the sauce.

In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about hickory barbecue sauce. From its ingredients to its health benefits, usage, and storage - we've got you covered.

Overview of Hickory Barbecue Sauce

Barbecue sauce is typically made with a combination of tomato sauce, vinegar, sugar, spices, and sometimes mustard. Hickory barbecue sauce, in particular, gets its distinctive smoky flavor from hickory wood chips or liquid smoke. The sauce is usually thick and can range from sweet to tangy to spicy, depending on the recipe. It's a popular condiment for grilled or smoked meats, but can also be used as a marinade, dressing, or dip for vegetables and other foods.

Ingredients in Hickory Barbecue Sauce

As mentioned, hickory barbecue sauce typically contains tomato sauce, vinegar, sugar, and spices. The type and amount of spices can vary, but may include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, and chili powder. Some brands may also add other ingredients like Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke, corn syrup, or molasses. It's also worth noting that some barbecue sauces may contain high-fructose corn syrup or preservatives, so it's always a good idea to read the label before purchasing.

Serving Size of Hickory Barbecue Sauce

The serving size of hickory barbecue sauce is typically two tablespoons or 34 grams. This amount may vary depending on the brand and recipe, so be sure to check the label. Two tablespoons of hickory barbecue sauce contain around 45 calories, 11 grams of carbohydrates, 9 grams of sugar, and no fat or protein. While it's generally safe to consume hickory barbecue sauce in moderation, it's important to remember that it contains sugar and sodium. Consuming too much of these can have negative impacts on overall health.

Health Benefits of Consuming Hickory Barbecue Sauce

While hickory barbecue sauce is not a superfood, it does contain some health benefits. For instance, it may provide small amounts of vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, potassium, and iron. It may also have antioxidant properties due to the presence of spices like paprika and cumin. However, it's important to keep in mind the potential negative effects of consuming too much sugar and sodium. To make hickory barbecue sauce part of a healthy diet, it's best to use it in moderation and pair it with nutrient-dense foods.

Usage in Meat-based Recipes

Hickory barbecue sauce is particularly popular in meat-based recipes. It pairs well with chicken, pork, beef, and even seafood. You can use it as a marinade for the meat, baste it during grilling or roasting, or serve it as a dipping sauce on the side. Some classic meat-based dishes that use hickory barbecue sauce include pulled pork sandwiches, barbecue chicken wings, and beef brisket.

Vegan-friendly Hickory Barbecue Sauce Alternatives

While hickory barbecue sauce is traditionally used with meat-based dishes, it doesn't mean that vegans and vegetarians can't enjoy it too. There are plenty of vegan-friendly alternatives in the market that use plant-based ingredients like soy sauce, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar instead of animal products. For instance, you can try barbecued jackfruit, tofu, or seitan with hickory barbecue sauce. Or, you can use it as a dressing for a hearty salad with black beans, sweet corn, and fresh greens.

Brands that Offer Hickory Barbecue Sauce

If you're interested in trying hickory barbecue sauce, there are plenty of brands that offer it. Some popular options include Kraft, Sweet Baby Ray's, Stubbs, and Jack Daniel's. Each brand may have its own unique recipe and flavor profile, so it's worth trying a few to find your favorite. You can find hickory barbecue sauce at most grocery stores or online retailers. Some stores may even offer sampler packs or multi-packs for you to try.

The Flavor Profile of Hickory Barbecue Sauce

Hickory barbecue sauce has a distinct smoky flavor, thanks to the use of hickory wood chips or liquid smoke. It can also be sweet, tangy, or spicy, depending on the recipe. Some people compare the flavor to smoked meats, while others describe it as woodsy or earthy. The flavor profile of hickory barbecue sauce can vary depending on the brand and recipe, so it's worth experimenting to find your favorite. You can also try making your own sauce by combining tomato sauce, vinegar, sugar, and spices to your liking.

How to Store Hickory Barbecue Sauce

Hickory barbecue sauce, like other condiments, should be stored in a cool, dry place. Once opened, it should be refrigerated and consumed within a few weeks. Check the label for specific instructions on storage and expiration dates. If you're not sure if the sauce is still good, give it a sniff test and look for signs of mold or spoilage.

Common Uses of Hickory Barbecue Sauce

Apart from meat-based dishes, hickory barbecue sauce can be used in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas:

• As a dip for french fries or mozzarella sticks
• As a dressing for coleslaw or potato salad
• As a topping for pizza or baked potatoes
• As a glaze for roasted vegetables or tofu