Nothing says summertime quite like barbecue. I love a good pulled pork sandwich with a tart, spicy, slightly sweet sauce poured over top, finished off with a mound of cool, creamy cole slaw. Instead of buying bottled barbecue sauce, I opt for the old school method and invest a little extra time in making a homemade sauce.
As I mentioned before, I love a tart sauce, and this one incorporates not only the standard vinegar, but also fresh squeezed lemon juice. This recipe was handed down from my Aunt Flo. She was a fantastic, quintessential Southern cook, and this sauce was her signature. Pair with pulled pork and a fresh Kaiser roll, and you’ll have the perfect summer sandwich. Also, try with chicken for a wonderful summer treat on the grill.
Aunt Flo’s Hot and Tangy Barbecue Sauce
Melt ½ stick butter in 2 cups water.
Add:
4 tablespoons brown sugar
1 cup ketchup
5 tablespoons vinegar
2 tablespoons lemon juice
5 teaspoons mustard
2 teaspoons paprika
2 teaspoons chili powder
2 teaspoons cayenne pepper
Salt to taste
*1 teaspoon-1 tablespoon black pepper
Mix all ingredients together. Simmer slowly for one hour, whisking frequently.
*Aunt Flo's recipe calls for 1 tablespoon pepper-I usually use less. I go full strength with the cayenne--I like it hot and spicy!
