Barbecue sauce is a staple in most households, especially during the summer season. It’s the perfect accompaniment to burgers, hot dogs, and grilled meats.
However, store-bought barbecue sauce can be a bit lackluster in terms of flavor. If you’re looking to add some depth and complexity to your barbecue sauce, look no further than bourbon.
Bourbon is a type of whiskey that’s primarily made in Kentucky. It’s known for its sweet and smoky flavor profile, which makes it a great addition to barbecue sauce. Adding bourbon to store-bought barbecue sauce can take it from ordinary to extraordinary.
Before we dive into the specifics of adding bourbon to store-bought barbecue sauce, let’s talk about the different types of barbecue sauces. There are four primary types of barbecue sauces: tomato-based, mustard-based, vinegar-based, and white barbecue sauce.
Tomato-based barbecue sauces are the most common type of barbecue sauce and are typically sweetened with sugar or molasses. Mustard-based sauces have a tangy flavor profile and are popular in South Carolina.
Vinegar-based sauces are thin and tangy and are commonly used in North Carolina. White barbecue sauce is unique because it’s made with mayonnaise instead of tomato or vinegar.
Regardless of which type of barbecue sauce you prefer, adding bourbon can enhance its flavor profile. Here’s how:
1. Choose your favorite store-bought barbecue sauce
The first step in adding bourbon to your store-bought barbecue sauce is choosing a brand that you like. You can choose any type of barbecue sauce – tomato-based, mustard-based, vinegar-based – as long as you enjoy its flavor profile.
2. Add bourbon
Once you’ve chosen your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce, it’s time to add the bourbon. Start by adding 1-2 tablespoons per cup of BBQ sauce and adjust based on your personal taste preferences.
3. Mix well
Make sure to mix the barbecue sauce and bourbon thoroughly. You can do this by whisking the sauce in a bowl or shaking it in a jar.
4. Taste and adjust
After adding the bourbon, taste the barbecue sauce and adjust as necessary. If you want a stronger bourbon flavor, add more bourbon. If you want a sweeter flavor, add honey or brown sugar.
Adding bourbon to store-bought barbecue sauce is an easy way to elevate its flavor profile and impress your guests at your next summer barbecue. Just remember to start with a small amount of bourbon and adjust based on your personal taste preferences.
In conclusion, adding bourbon to store-bought barbecue sauce is a simple yet effective way to enhance its flavor profile. Whether you prefer tomato-based, mustard-based, vinegar-based, or white barbecue sauce, bourbon can take it from ordinary to extraordinary. So go ahead and give it a try at your next summer barbecue – your taste buds will thank you!