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Zaxby’s Bbq Sauce Recipe

Zaxby’s Bbq Sauce Recipe

Kimberly Booker RD
BBQ sauce is often the unsung hero of a great meal. For me, Zaxby’s BBQ sauce holds a special place.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course sauce
Cuisine American
Servings 1 cup
Calories 45 kcal

Equipment

  • large potlarge pot

Ingredients
  

  • 12.5 pounds fresh ripe tomatoes or 5 quarts of fresh or canned blended tomato juice
  • 2 quarts white vinegar plus 1/2 cup extra
  • 1 cup pure honey
  • 3 1/4 cups packed brown sugar
  • 1 cup dark molasses
  • 2/3 cup Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 cup finely chopped onion
  • 3/4 cup Liquid Smoke blend of Hickory and Mesquite
  • 1 cup Thermflo or preferred thickening agent

Spices:

  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons ground mustard
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger
  • 1 tablespoon ground nutmeg plus 1/2 teaspoon extra
  • 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 3 tablespoons coarsely ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 3 tablespoons ground coriander
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 2 tablespoons garlic salt
  • 5 tablespoons coarse sea salt
  • 3 tablespoons onion powder
  • 1/2 tablespoon white pepper
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika new addition for a deeper smoky flavor
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric new addition for warmth and color

Instructions
 

  • Now, let’s turn our attention to how we can make this Zaxby’s BBQ sauce at home.

Step 1: Prepare Your Tomatoes

  • Begin by washing your fresh tomatoes thoroughly. If you’re using canned tomato juice, ensure it’s blended. For fresh tomatoes, dice them and blend until smooth. The goal is to create a uniform tomato base.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in a Pot

  • In a large pot, combine the blended tomatoes, white vinegar, honey, brown sugar, dark molasses, and Worcestershire sauce. Turn on the heat to medium, stirring until all the ingredients blend seamlessly.

Step 3: Chop and Sauté the Onions

  • In a separate pan, sauté your finely chopped onions until they turn translucent. It’s best to cook them down for about 5 to 7 minutes. This enhances their natural sweetness, which will play a crucial role in the overall flavor.

Step 4: Add Onions and Liquid Smoke

  • Once the onions are ready, stir them into the larger pot. Then, add the Liquid Smoke. This gives the sauce its signature smoky flavor. Mix everything well, ensuring even distribution.

Step 5: Incorporate Spices

  • Now it’s time to spice things up! Gradually add each spice into the pot, giving everything a good stir after each addition. This will help release the flavors. The aroma should be inviting, indicating that it’s coming together beautifully.

Step 6: Simmer and Thicken

  • Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about an hour. This will allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. You can adjust the thickness by adding more Thermflo if needed.

Step 7: Cool and Store

  • Once your sauce is done, let it cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in your refrigerator. It should last for a couple of weeks.

Notes

Here are some helpful tips to elevate your Zaxby’s BBQ sauce-making skills:
  • Control the Spice: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper depending on your heat tolerance. Less if you’re sensitive, more if you crave a kick.
  • Fresh is Best: Whenever possible, use fresh spices and vegetables for a more vibrant flavor.
  • Adjust to Taste: Feel free to tweak the sweetness by adding more honey or molasses.
  • Create a Smoky Flavor: If Liquid Smoke isn’t available, consider using smoked paprika or adding some grilled tomatoes for a natural smokiness.
  • Blend It Smooth: For a smoother sauce, blend it once cooked. This also helps combine the spices evenly.

Nutrition

Calories: 45kcalCarbohydrates: 11gSodium: 150mgSugar: 10g
Keyword Zaxby’s Bbq Sauce Recipe
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