What Makes Texas BBQ Sauce Bigger And Bolder Than Others

Barbecue is an American tradition, and no matter the season, there's just something about charred, smoky meat that makes the mouth water. From crispy burnt ends to shredded or chopped pork, to slow-smoked chicken, it's all well worth sampling. 

While every region has its unique style, flavor, and even choice of cuts, there's no denying that barbecue is ingrained in food culture. What it's topped or marinated with, however, can be a matter of personal preference. Just about everyone has their favorite barbecue sauces (though some purists believe that truly good barbecue stands on its own, no sauce needed), and various states across the U.S. are known for their particular styles, notes Taste of Home.

But let's hone in on one specific type: Texas barbecue sauce. This tomato-based sauce holds its own thanks to elements like spiciness and smoky beef, but what is it that really makes sauce from the Lone Star State stand out?

There's a saying that everything is bigger in Texas, and that sentiment might just extend to its barbecue. When most people think of Texas barbecue, they likely conjure up an image of a slab of smoked brisket. Any barbecue aficionado will tell you that the mark of a good smoked brisket is the delicate balance of a charred outer layer and juicy, melt-in-your-mouth beef. Pairing a sauce with this cut requires a flavor palate that can stand up to, yet complement, the meat — the real star of the show. 

While most traditional barbecue sauces are tomato-based — mainly ketchup combined with brown sugar or molasses, or both – Texas sauce mixes it up by starting with tomato paste for a bolder base, says Hey Grill Hey. Of course, a little sweetness only adds to the rich flavor of brisket, and Texas-style barbecue gets its sweet flavor from both brown sugar and honey, which make for a sauce that's a bit thinner (arguably making more room for the meat) than the traditional tomato-based sauce.

There are a few more things that make Texas barbecue sauce stand out from the rest of the pack. While some variations are natural depending on the region or the barbecue joint, Texas sauce gets its punch from adding a handful of spices, along with an extra layer of flavor from savory or tangy ingredients such as mustard and vinegar (per Texas Monthly). 

Let's talk spices. Along with salt and pepper, chili powder is often used in Texas recipes, and that probably doesn't come as a big surprise to anyone who loves Texan cuisine for its kick. But along with the obvious effect of bringing in a bit of heat, the chili powder also adds a subtle smoky flavor that enhances the sauce. 

Finally, Texas barbecue is rounded out with a bit of acidity, usually in the form of lemon juice, along with a few shakes of Worcestershire sauce, as Texas Monthly further describes. The result? A sauce that's as bold, layered, and as unique as the Lone Star state itself — and one that's a must-try the next time you enjoy barbecued beef.