Harold's Mild Sauce Recipe
Harold's Mild Sauce Recipe captures the iconic flavor of a Chicago staple, loved by chicken aficionados everywhere.
Equipment
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Blender (optional, for smoother sauce)
- Glass jar or bottle for storage
Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust for milder flavor
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine all the ingredients except the salt. Stir thoroughly to distribute the spices uniformly throughout the mixture.
- Simmer: Set the saucepan on medium heat and allow the contents to reach a soft simmer. Regularly stir the mixture to avoid any sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Thicken Sauce: Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for about 20 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency.
- Taste and Season: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Taste the sauce and add salt as needed. Adjust seasoning if more sweetness or tanginess is desired.
- Blend (Optional): For a smoother sauce, carefully transfer the mixture to a blender and blend until smooth.
- Cool and Store: Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to a glass jar or bottle. Store in the refrigerator.
Notes
- Adjust Spice Levels: Start with less cayenne pepper and gradually add more until you reach your desired heat level.
- Simmer Slowly: Low and slow cooking helps the flavors meld better and prevents the sauce from burning.
- Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality paprika and fresh garlic powder make a big difference in flavor.
- Stir Frequently: Keep the sauce moving to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
- Store Properly: Keep the sauce in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness for up to two weeks.