Cola Barbecue Sauce

1. 1

   Smash the garlic cloves, sprinkle with a generous pinch of salt, and, with the flat side of a large knife, mash and smear mixture to a coarse paste.

2. 2

   Stir garlic paste, the 1/4 teaspoon salt, cola, ketchup, vinegar, Worcestershire, chili powder, 1 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce, and allspice together in a small saucepan.

3. 3

   Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer until thickened, about 45 minutes.

4. 4

   Allow to cool slightly, stir in the lime juice, and season with black pepper and hot sauce, to taste.

5. 5

   Know-How: Barbecue sauces are all about balance: a sweet note offset by sour with a jolt of spice, all of which flourish in a cloud of smoke.

6. 6

   There are lots of ways to work this magic-thick, thin, and in-between.

7. 7

   Concocting a signature sauce is compulsory in some barbecue circles.

8. 8

   Start with this basic riff and play with variations to suit your style.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.