How to Make Your Own BBQ Sauce: 3 Ways

For Carolina Mustard-Vinegar BBQ Sauce: Place all the ingredients in a medium saucepan and simmer over medium-low heat with ¼ cup water, whisking to combine to create a glossy sauce as the butter melts and reduces and thickens slightly; around 10 to 15 minutes, or until it reaches your desired consistency. Allow to cool.

For Kansas City-Style BBQ Sauce: Peel and grate the onion on the large holes of a box grater. Melt 3 tbsp butter in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the grated onion and cook until softened, around 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add 1 tbsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp chili powder (or ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper), 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tsp ground black pepper. Stir to combine and allow spices to meld into the onions for about 1 minute.

Add the remaining ingredients, stirring to combine. Once the sauce begins to bubble, reduce heat to low, and simmer for around 30 minutes until the sauce is jammy and thick. If you prefer a smooth sauce, you can strain through a fine-mesh strainer. Allow to cool.

For Kentucky Bourbon BBQ Sauce: Place all the ingredients in a medium saucepan and simmer over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until sauce thickens and reduces slightly, about 20 minutes, or until it reaches your desired consistency. Allow to cool.