If you're a fan of grilled meat, chances are you've encountered BBQ sauce before. This sweet and tangy sauce is a staple in many households, and is often used as a marinade or dipping sauce. In fact, just 2 tbsp (36 g) of Original BBQ Sauce contains around 50 calories.
Apart from adding flavour to your food, BBQ sauce also has some nutritional benefits. It contains some important vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and iron.
In this article, we'll explore the history of BBQ sauce, its nutritional value, and how to make it at home. We'll also provide some tips on how to choose the best BBQ sauce and compare it with other types of sauces.
History of BBQ Sauce
BBQ sauce is said to have originated in the southern United States in the late 1800s. It was initially used as a marinade for meat before grilling or smoking, and was made from a combination of vinegar, tomato paste, sugar, and spices. Over time, the recipe for BBQ sauce evolved, and many different varieties emerged. Some popular types of BBQ sauce include Memphis-style, Kansas City-style, and Carolina-style. Today, BBQ sauce is enjoyed all over the world and is a key ingredient in many dishes, from ribs and chicken wings to pizzas and sandwiches.
Benefits of Using BBQ Sauce for Cooking
Apart from being delicious, BBQ sauce also has some health benefits. For example, it contains antioxidants that can help protect against cell damage and lower the risk of certain diseases. Furthermore, using BBQ sauce as a marinade can help tenderize meat and make it more flavourful. It can also be used as a sauce for vegetables, tofu, or even as a dip for chips and crackers. However, it should be noted that most BBQ sauces are high in sugar and calories, so it's important to use them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
How to Use BBQ Sauce in Different Dishes
BBQ sauce is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many different dishes. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Marinade for meat, such as chicken, beef, or pork
- Glaze for grilled or roasted vegetables, such as eggplant, zucchini, or peppers
- Dipping sauce for chicken wings, shrimp, or tofu
- Spread for sandwiches or burgers
- Pizza sauce
The Ingredients Used to Make Original BBQ Sauce
The ingredients used to make BBQ sauce can vary depending on the recipe, but some common ingredients include:
- Ketchup or tomato paste
- Vinegar
- Sugar or honey
- Worcestershire sauce
- Mustard
- Hot sauce
- Spices such as garlic, paprika, or onion powder
Original BBQ Sauce, for example, contains tomato concentrate, high fructose corn syrup, distilled vinegar, molasses, corn syrup, salt, soy sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, spices, and natural flavor.
The Nutritional Value of 2 tbsp Original BBQ Sauce
As mentioned earlier, 2 tbsp (36 g) of Original BBQ Sauce contains around 50 calories. It also contains 12 g of carbohydrates, 10 g of sugar, and 280 mg of sodium. However, BBQ sauce can also be a good source of some important nutrients. For example, 2 tbsp of Original BBQ Sauce contains around 10% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C and vitamin A, as well as 4% of the recommended daily intake of potassium and iron.
How to Make BBQ Sauce at Home
Making BBQ sauce at home is surprisingly easy, and allows you to adjust the ingredients to suit your tastes. Here's a simple recipe to get you started:
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp mustard powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Simply whisk all the ingredients together in a bowl, and use it as a marinade or glaze.
Tips on Choosing the Best BBQ Sauce
There are many different types and brands of BBQ sauce available, so it can be challenging to choose the right one. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Look for sauces without high fructose corn syrup or other artificial ingredients
- Read the label to check for added sugars and excess sodium
- Consider the style of BBQ sauce you prefer (sweet, tangy, or spicy)
- Choose a sauce that complements the dish you plan to serve it with
BBQ Sauce vs Other Types of Sauces
While BBQ sauce is a popular choice for grilling and smoking, there are many other types of sauces that can be used for similar purposes. Here are a few examples:
- Teriyaki sauce, which is often used as a marinade for meat
- Sriracha sauce, which adds a spicy kick to dishes
- Salsa, which pairs well with grilled fish and vegetables
- Chimichurri sauce, which is a popular marinade for steak
- Pesto, which is a great sauce for grilled chicken or seafood
Ultimately, the type of sauce you choose will depend on your personal preferences and the dish you plan to make.
BBQ Sauce Brands to Try
If you're looking for a good BBQ sauce to try, here are a few brands that have received positive reviews:
- Sweet Baby Ray's Original BBQ Sauce
- Bull's-Eye Original BBQ Sauce
- Stubb's Original BBQ Sauce
- KC Masterpiece Original BBQ Sauce
- Trader Joe's Bold and Smoky Kansas City Style Barbecue Sauce
How to Store BBQ Sauce
BBQ sauce should be stored in a cool, dry place, such as a pantry or cupboard. Once opened, it can be stored in the fridge for up to 6 months. Be sure to check the label for specific storage instructions and expiration dates, as some types of BBQ sauce may require refrigeration even before opening.
BBQ sauce is a great way to add flavour to your food and tenderize your meat. However, it's important to use it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Frequently Asked Questions about Original BBQ Sauce
1. What is Original BBQ Sauce?
Original BBQ Sauce is a type of sauce used for grilling or barbecue. It typically contains a combination of tomato-based sauce, vinegar, sugar, and a variety of spices that provide a sweet and tangy flavor to the dish.
2. How is Original BBQ Sauce used?
Original BBQ Sauce is commonly used as a marinade, glaze, or dipping sauce for meat, particularly for pork, beef, or chicken. It is often applied during the cooking process to add flavor and tenderize the meat. BBQ sauce is also used as a condiment on hamburgers, hot dogs, and other grilled foods.
3. Is Original BBQ Sauce Healthy?
Original BBQ Sauce can be a good source of flavor to any dish, but it can also be high in calories and sugar. It is important to read the nutrition label and serving size before using it in your recipes. To make a healthy version, you can use natural sweeteners, such as honey or maple syrup, and reduce the amount of sugar and sodium.
4. How to store Original BBQ Sauce?
Original BBQ Sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to six months or in the freezer for up to one year. It is recommended to keep it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness and flavor.
5. What are some other flavors of BBQ Sauce?
There are many varieties of BBQ sauce available, including sweet, spicy, smoky, and tangy flavors. Some popular types include honey BBQ sauce, chipotle BBQ sauce, mustard-based BBQ sauce, and vinegar-based BBQ sauce.