MAKES ABOUT 3 CUPS

This sweet, ketchup-based sauce is typical of the Oklahoma City barbecue style.

2 cups ketchup
2/3 cup dark brown sugar
4 cloves garlic, peeled and finely chopped
1/4 cup worcestershire sauce
2–3 tbsp. white or cider vinegar
1–2 tsp. barbecue spice (see recipe, above)
1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
Salt

1. Put ketchup, sugar, garlic, I cup water, worcestershire, vinegar, barbecue spice, and pepper into a small heavy-bottomed saucepan and stir until well combined. Season to taste with salt, if you like. Simmer over medium-low heat, reducing heat, if necessary, to maintain a gentle simmer, for 30 minutes. If not using sauce right away, allow to cool, then store in a clean jar, tightly sealed, in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.