Homemade A1 Steak Sauce Recipe

1 1/4 cups ketchup

2 tablespoons yellow mustard

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

1 1/2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

4 drops hot sauce (e.g., Tabasco, or your favorite variety)

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 pinch cayenne pepper

1 tablespoon brown sugar (for a touch of sweetness)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a smoky undertone)

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (to balance out acidity)

Directions:

Combine the Ingredients:

In a medium saucepan, whisk together the ketchup, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, hot sauce, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and fresh lemon juice.

Cook the Sauce:

Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure everything is well combined. Heat the sauce, stirring occasionally, until it begins to simmer gently. You’ll notice the sugars starting to dissolve and the flavors beginning to meld together.

Simmer and Blend:

Allow the sauce to simmer for 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally, making sure the sauce doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan. This simmering will help the flavors deepen and the sauce thicken slightly.

Taste and Adjust:

Before removing from heat, taste your sauce and adjust any seasonings to your liking. If you prefer a spicier kick, add more hot sauce or cayenne pepper. For added sweetness, throw in a bit more brown sugar or honey.

Cool and Store:

Remove the sauce from heat and allow it to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container or glass jar. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to fully develop. The sauce can be kept in the fridge for up to 2-3 weeks.