Sweet and slightly spicy, Chicago Mild Sauce is a tasty condiment that goes well with many foods. made with just 5 Ingredients!

Last month, I tried Wendy’s BBQ Sauce Recipe, and to be honest, it was amazing. So, I thought, why not try making something different but still in the same category? That’s when I decided to give this Chicago Mild Sauce recipe a try.

Let me tell you, it’s fantastic. It’s easy to make and incredibly versatile. You can use it in various ways, like dipping fried chicken or fries, topping burgers or hot dogs, or even as a marinade for grilled meats. Its tangy, slightly sweet, and mildly spicy flavor adds a delicious kick to any dish.

What is Chicago Mild Sauce?

Chicago Mild Sauce is a popular condiment known for its tangy, slightly sweet, and mildly spicy flavor. It typically consists of ketchup, hot sauce, barbecue sauce, vinegar, and sugar.

How to make Chicago Mild Sauce

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Louisiana or Frank’s RedHot)
• 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 tablespoon vinegar (white or apple cider)
• 1 tablespoon sugar

Instructions

Step 1:

Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized saucepan, combine 1/2 cup ketchup, 1/4 cup hot sauce, 1/4 cup barbecue sauce, 1 tablespoon vinegar, and 1 tablespoon sugar.

Step 2:

Heat and Stir: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir the mixture constantly until the sugar is fully dissolved and the ingredients are well combined. This should take about 5 minutes.

Step 3:

Simmer: Once the sauce begins to simmer, reduce the heat to low and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps the flavors meld together.

Step 4:

Cool and Serve: Remove the sauce from the heat and let it cool. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container.

Notes

• If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the amount of hot sauce. For more heat, add a bit more.
• You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar. Start with 1 tablespoon and adjust to taste.
• White vinegar gives a sharper taste, while apple cider vinegar adds a slight fruitiness. Choose based on your preference.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it a bit longer. For a thinner sauce, add a tablespoon of water.

How to use Chicago Mild Sauce

My favorite ways to use Chicago Mild Sauce are varied and delicious. I like to use it as a dip for fried chicken wings or tenders like Publix Fried Chicken, adding a tangy, flavorful twist. Also, I love spreading it on my burgers to enhance the meat and toppings with an extra layer of flavor. Drizzling it over fries or sweet potato fries is another tasty option, providing a nice change from regular ketchup. For those who enjoy hot dogs, a dollop of this sauce gives them a unique, spicy kick.

You can also use it as a marinade for grilled meats like chicken, pork, or beef, adding a delicious glaze. It makes a great spread for sandwiches or wraps, elevating the overall taste with its tangy goodness. For those who prefer healthier options, serve it as a dipping sauce for fresh or roasted vegetables to make a snack more exciting.

How to store

To store Chicago Mild Sauce, first let the sauce cool to room temperature if it was heated. Then, transfer it to an airtight container to keep it fresh. Store the container in the refrigerator, where the sauce will stay fresh for up to two weeks. Before using the sauce again, give it a quick stir to mix any separated ingredients. By following these steps, you can ensure your Chicago Mild Sauce remains delicious and ready to use whenever you need it.

FAQ

How spicy is Chicago Mild Sauce?

Chicago Mild Sauce has a mild to medium level of spiciness. The hot sauce provides a bit of heat, but it is balanced by the sweetness of the ketchup and sugar.

Can I make the sauce less spicy?

Yes, you can make the sauce less spicy by reducing the amount of hot sauce or using a milder hot sauce. You can also add more ketchup or barbecue sauce to mellow out the heat.

How long does Chicago Mild Sauce last?

When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, Chicago Mild Sauce can last up to two weeks. Always stir the sauce before using it again to ensure the ingredients are well-mixed.

Can I use this sauce as a marinade?

Yes, you can use Chicago Mild Sauce as a marinade for meats like chicken, pork, or beef. It adds a delicious glaze and enhances the flavor of the meat when grilled or roasted.

Is there a way to make a healthier version of this sauce?

To make a healthier version, you can use reduced-sugar ketchup and barbecue sauce. Additionally, you can substitute some of the sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or agave syrup.