INGREDIENTS:
- ½ cup Nuka-Cola soda (page 165)
- ½ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ cup steak sauce
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Combine all the ingredients in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Simmer the sauce uncovered for 20 minutes.
- Transfer the sauce to an airtight container, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.
This tangy sauce sounds like a versatile condiment with a hint of heat from the hot sauce. It can be a flavorful addition to various dishes. Enjoy!
VARIATIONS OF THE SAUCE:
- Sweet and Spicy: Add an extra tablespoon of brown sugar or honey for a sweeter profile. Increase the hot sauce for an additional kick.
- Asian Fusion: Replace the ketchup with hoisin sauce and add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce. Add grated fresh ginger for an Asian twist.
- Smoky BBQ: Mix in 1 tablespoon of liquid smoke for a rich smoky flavor. Adjust the hot sauce to balance the smokiness with heat.
- Citrus Twist: Squeeze in the juice of one lime or orange for a citrusy zing. This works great with grilled meats.
- Herb-Infused: Add dried or fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the sauce while simmering. Strain them out before storing.
- Mustard Infusion: Mix in 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard for a tangy and slightly pungent version.
- Maple Glaze: Substitute 2 tablespoons of maple syrup for some of the sugar for a sweet and rich flavor. Great for glazing meats.
- Extra Spicy: Increase the hot sauce and add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for those who love intense heat.
- Honey Mustard: Combine 1/4 cup of honey with 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard for a sweet and tangy twist. Great for dipping.
- Creamy BBQ: Mix in 1/4 cup of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a creamy texture and a milder flavor.
- Pineapple BBQ: Add 1/4 cup of pineapple juice and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar for a tropical flair. Perfect for glazing grilled chicken or pork.
- Smokey Chipotle: Stir in 2-3 chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky and spicy profile. Use cautiously, as chipotles can be quite hot.
- Garlic Lover’s Delight: Add 3-4 minced garlic cloves while simmering for a bold garlic flavor. Ideal for marinating meats.
- Berry Infused: Mix in 1/2 cup of your favorite berry preserves (such as raspberry or blueberry) for a fruity and slightly tart taste. Great with grilled meats.
- Herb and Citrus Blend: Add the zest of one lemon or orange, along with a teaspoon of dried herbs (like thyme or basil) for a refreshing and aromatic sauce.
- Mango Madness: Puree 1 ripe mango and mix it into the sauce for a sweet and tropical vibe. Terrific with seafood and grilled dishes.
- Balsamic Twist: Replace the ketchup with 1/4 cup of balsamic vinegar for a rich and slightly tangy glaze. Perfect for roasted vegetables.
- Maple Glaze: Add 1/4 cup of pure maple syrup for a sweet and rich twist. Great for glazing ham or roasted vegetables.
- Thai Inspired: Mix in 1 tablespoon of peanut butter, 1 teaspoon of soy sauce, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a Thai-inspired flavor with a hint of heat. Ideal for stir-fries.
- Sesame Teriyaki: Add 2 tablespoons of sesame oil and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce for a savory and slightly nutty taste. Perfect for marinating chicken or beef.
