Happy Memorial Day weekend everyone! This is a wonderful time of year, no matter where you live since it signals the beginning of summer. It is welcomed with parades, visits to family plots at cemeteries, remembrances of those who defended our country and…barbecue! I spelled that out today since I almost forgot the actual word, seems we have replaced it with the acronym BBQ.

Who doesn’t enjoy a steak on the grill, hot, cooked the way you like it and served with side dishes that make your mouth water?

I saw a bottle of BBQ sauce in the store today and it was $8.99. Granted, I do live in California where everything is a little over priced but I started thinking about making my own signature sauce.

Here is a recipe that is perfection and you may already have the ingredients in your pantry. You’ll save money and feel proud of your culinary achievement. Have a great holiday, Bon Appetit!

Claire’s California BBQ Sauce

Ingredients:

1 stick unsalted butter

1 sweet onion, very finely chopped

2 1/2 cups ketchup

2 cups apple cider vinegar

1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce

1/4 cup Dijon mustard

2 Tablespoons firmly packed brown sugar

Juice of 2 lemons

2 Tablespoons freshly ground black pepper

Prepare;

1. Heat the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.

2. Add onions and simmer until softened, 5-7 minutes.

3. Add the ketchup, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, brown sugar, lemon juice and pepper. Bring to a boil.

4. Reduce heat and simmer about 10 minutes.

5. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.