BBQ Sauce

I have never found a store bought bbq sauce that we are crazy about and have been searching for a good homemade one. I found this recipe over at My Kitchen Cafe and I got a thumbs up from my kids and hubby. It tasted really yummy and it was easy to make. I will be making this bbq sauce for now on. You must try it out.

BBQ Sauce adapted a little from My Kitchen Cafe
2 cups ketchup
2 cups tomato sauce
1 cup -1 1/4 cup brown sugar(I used 1 1/4 but next time I am only going to use 1 cup)
1 1/4 cup red wine vinegar(I only had white so that is what I used)
1/2 cup molasses
2 T. butter, cut into small pieces
4 tsp. hickory flavored liquid smoke(find this at any store by the bbq sauces)
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 -1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper or ground red pepper
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp celery seed( I used celery salt because I didn't have any seed)
1 tsp black pepper

In a large saucepan, over medium heat, mix together all of the ingredients. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for at LEAST 30 minutes, stiring occasionally. The sauce will thicken as it simmers(and then as it cools). I simmered mine for 1 hour -1 1/2 hours like Melanie at Kitchen cafe suggested. Use to brush on meats while grilling or any recipe that uses bbq sauce.

Note: it was not spicy at all so my husband and I poured some in a seperate bowl and mixed in a tsp of Siracha chili sauce with it. It gave it just the right kick that we love. My kids don't like the heat so much so they had the plain. (you can find Siracha on the Asian/Oriental food Aisle in your local grocery store)

Note: if you love bbq chicken pizza this would be so yummy to use and make your own pizza!!! I am going to try it sometime.

Note: the recipe makes about 2 pint jars full of sauce