Our Basic KC Barbecue Sauce
Contributors

Here is a simple version of Kansas City–style sauce—tomatoey, tangy, thick, pungent, and sweet—similar to bottled sauces in the store. We like this sauce because it goes together very quickly with simple ingredients.
Cooking MethodSlow Cooking
CostInexpensive
Total Timehalf-day
Dietary ConsiderationEgg-free, Halal, Kosher, Lactose-free, Peanut Free, Tree Nut Free
EquipmentBlender, Crock Pot, Food Processor
Taste and TextureSavory, Smoky, Spiced
Type of DishBarbecue Sauce, Condiments, Sauces
Ingredients
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- One 32-ounce can tomato puree
- ½ cup bottled chili sauce
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
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Heat the oil in a medium-size skillet over medium heat; add the onion and garlic and sauté until limp, about 5 minutes. Transfer the contents of the skillet to the slow cooker and add the tomato puree, chili sauce, honey, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard.
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Cover and cook on LOW for 5 to 8 hours. If the sauce is not thick enough for you, remove the cover, turn the setting to HIGH, and cook for up to 30 minutes longer, until it reaches the desired consistency. Puree in the crock with an immersion blender, or transfer it in batches to a blender or food processor and puree. Cool, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 months.
Notes
Cooker: Medium round or oval
Setting and cook time: LOW for 5 to 8 hours
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2007 Beth Hensperger and Julie Kaufmann