Ribs, slow-cooked to tender perfection, deserve a sauce that's equally as special.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup ketchup
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
3 tablespoons molasses
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
Stir in the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Taste and adjust seasonings with salt and pepper as needed.
Use the sauce immediately to baste ribs during the final stages of cooking, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Tips & Substitutions:
For a sweeter sauce: Increase the brown sugar to 1/3 cup.
For a spicier sauce: Add more cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
For a smoky flavor: Use smoked paprika and a touch of liquid smoke.
Make it your own: Experiment with other spices and flavorings, such as mustard powder, brown mustard, or honey.
