Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey (Old No. 7)
  • 1/2 cup Yellow Onion, very finely minced
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Olive Oil
  • 2 cups Ketchup
  • 2 tbsp Tomato Paste
  • 1/3 cup Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 1/4 cup Worcestershire Sauce
  • 1/2 cup Dark Brown Sugar, packed
  • 2 tbsp Molasses
  • 1 tsp Liquid Smoke
  • 1/2 tsp Onion Powder
  • 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper
  • 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced onion and garlic, sautéing for 3–4 minutes until translucent.
  2. Pour in the Jack Daniel's whiskey to deglaze the pan. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the liquid has reduced by half and the aggressive alcohol scent has dissipated.
  3. Whisk in the ketchup, tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce until the tomato paste is fully incorporated and smooth.
  4. Stir in the brown sugar, molasses, liquid smoke, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to low.
  5. Simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce darkens and reaches a glossy, thick consistency.