Ingredients for Carolina Barbecue Sauce
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons whole cumin seeds
- 1 tablespoon whole coriander seeds
- 1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns
- 2 tablespoons dried chilies (such as chipotle or ancho)
- 3 bay leaves
- 6 ounces tomato paste
- 28 ounces whole canned tomatoes, crushed by hand
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
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How to Make Carolina Barbecue Sauce
- Combine honey, molasses, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, peppercorns, chiles, and bay leaves in a large stockpot.
- Cook over medium-low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the garlic darkens and the mixture thickens and becomes fragrant.
- Stir in tomato paste and crushed tomatoes. Cook for 15 minutes, stirring frequently to break up the tomatoes.
- Add apple cider vinegar, water, and salt. The sauce should be relatively thin at this stage.
- Simmer the sauce uncovered for at least 2 hours, or up to 4 hours, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will be.
- Remove from heat. Set aside half of the sauce for marinating your pork.
- Let the remaining sauce cool slightly.
- Remove any large pieces of garlic or peppercorns.
- Carefully puree the sauce in a blender or food processor until smooth (be cautious when blending hot liquids). Some spices may remain whole for added texture.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. The sauce should have a slightly watery consistency, similar to a brothy tomato soup.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
Sodium
106 g
Sugar
81g
Fat
0g
Carbs
8g
