If you're looking for a quick and easy way to add bold flavor to your barbecue, this no-cook BBQ sauce, originally from Chicago for Ribs, is sure to impress. With its tangy and smoky notes, and just the right amount of heat, it's the perfect accompaniment to ribs, chicken, or any grilled meat. Plus, since it requires no cooking, it's a hassle-free way to elevate your next cookout. Give it a try and see how it takes your barbecue game to the next level!
Quick and Easy Smoky Tangy No-Cook BBQ Sauce - the beginnings...
This quick and easy smoky tangy no-cook BBQ sauce has been my favorite BBQ Sauce forever.
There are so many reasons to love this recipe. For starters, it's incredibly easy to make - just mix the ingredients together and let it sit for a while to allow the flavors to meld. But the real reason you'll love this sauce is the flavor. The combination of sweet, and smoky creates a mouthwatering sauce that will take your barbecue to the next level. And with just the right amount of heat, this sauce is sure to please everyone, from spice lovers to the more mild-mannered eaters. Whether you're grilling up chicken, pork, or beef, this sauce is the perfect accompaniment.
Jump to:
"This BBQ sauce is tangy, smoky, and a little bit hot"
This might start out sounding like a joke, but my ex-husband's cousin's friend owned a rib joint called Chicago for Ribs in Manhattan Beach CA. This was the BBQ sauce they used there, which, as I understand it, was "inspired" by the BBQ sauce used at Tony Roma's Rib and Steakhouse.
And you know those are some serious ribs.
This is a very tangy, smoky, and slightly hot barbecue sauce. It needs no cooking but is best if left overnight in the 'fridge to allow the flavors to blend fully and is delicious on ribs, chicken, shrimp...whatever you want sauce on. I especially love it on my recipe for Easy Make Ahead Oven Baked Grilled Ribs and simple BBQ Chicken Sandwiches.
Ingredients
The ingredients for this quick and easy tangy smoky sauce are very simple and common, and most are probably already in your pantry - barring the liquid smoke.
WARNING: Use liquid smoke sparingly as it is very strong. Start with the minimum in the recipe card and increase to the smoky level you desire.
Directions
Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl and whisk well to incorporate them fully. Transfer the BBQ sauce to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator.
Place all the ingredients into a bowl
Whisk until smooth. Conversely, you can put it into a jar with a tight-fitting lid and shake until well combined.
This BBQ sauce is best made at least a few hours, but better a few days, in advance.
Pro-Tip
While this BBQ sauce is so quick and easy, I still like to make a double batch to always have some at the ready when I feel like quickly grilling some chicken, shrimp, pork chops, or Easy Make Ahead Baked Grilled Ribs.
FAQ
No, actually they are not. Some are more concentrated than others, so start with the minimum suggested in the recipe, then taste and adjust for your desired level of smokiness.
Yes, make it spicier by adding a bit more Tabasco or even a dash or two of cayenne pepper.
Storage
Since the main ingredients in this sauce are ketchup, brown sugar, and water, with spices, this No-Cook BBQ Sauce can be stored in the refrigerator, in an airtight container for a few months at least.
Do not use if you see any mold.
Quick and Easy Tangy Smoky No Cook BBQ Sauce
Ingredients
- 1 cup catsup
- ¾ cup light brown sugar
- ½ cup water
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons soy sauce low-sodium preferred
- 2 teaspoons Tabasco or other hot pepper sauce
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ⅛ teaspoon liquid smoke adjust as needed
- Few drops fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Whisk the ingredients together until smooth or put into a jar with a tight fighting lid and shake shake shake. Refrigerate for a few hours at least, but best overnight. Keep refrigerated.
Brian says
A good tangy quick and easy sauce!
Cher says
I love barbecue sauce on everything! Thanks for sharing the awesome recipe, Linda - I can't wait to use it!!
Elle says
Happy it's so easy Linda. I like easy. 🙂
Jessica says
Looks delicious, Linda! I've never tried a homemade BBQ sauce. I know. I know. Shame on me! lol.