BBQ sauce
BBQ sauce is a flavorful condiment used to enhance grilled, smoked, or barbecued meats and other dishes. Its typical ingredients include a base of tomato (ketchup or paste), vinegar, sweeteners like brown sugar or molasses, and a blend of spices such as paprika, garlic, and onion powder. While its origins are rooted in American barbecue traditions, particularly in the Southern United States, countless regional and personal variations exist.
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🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
BBQ sauce is generally high in carbohydrates, primarily from added sugars, and is low in protein and fat. A typical two-tablespoon serving provides around 30-70 calories, with the main nutritional contribution being quick energy from sugars and small amounts of antioxidants from tomatoes and spices.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 50 kcal |
| Protein | 0.2 g |
| Carbs | 12 g |
| Fat | 0.1 g |
| Fiber | 0.1 g |
| Sugar | 10 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
| Potassium | 50 mg |
| Vitamin C | 2 mg |
| Iron | 0.2 mg |
| Calcium | 10 mg |
| Magnesium | 5 mg |
| Phosphorus | 10 mg |
| Zinc | 0.1 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 0.3 mg |
Per 2 tablespoons (36 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, BBQ sauce is a point of fierce regional pride and debate in the U.S., with distinct styles like the vinegar-based sauces of the Carolinas, the sweet and thick tomato-based sauces of Kansas City, and the tangy, mustard-based sauces of South Carolina. Nutritionally, its high sugar content makes it a condiment to enjoy in moderation, but it also delivers beneficial compounds like lycopene from its tomato base.
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AI estimate may be inaccurate · Terms