James River–Style Barbecue Sauce (Sweet, Tangy & Mild)
A sweet, tangy, mild barbecue sauce inspired by the classic James River sauce served on North Shore roast beef sandwiches in Boston. This homemade version skips the smoky heat and focuses on balance, making it perfect for piling onto roast beef, brushing over grilled chicken, or serving alongside fries.
Ingredients
- 1¼ cups water
- ½ cup onion coarsely chopped
- ¼-⅓ cup sugar
- ¼ cup butter
- 3 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1¼ cups ketchup
- ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
- 3-4 tablespoons lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon ground red pepper
Instructions
Build the base
- In a medium saucepan, combine the water, chopped onion, sugar, butter, mustard, vinegar, and black pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the sauce ingredients
- Stir in the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and red pepper.
- Bring the mixture back to a gentle boil.
- Simmer and reduce
- Lower the heat and simmer uncovered for 35–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors come together.
Finish
- Remove from heat and allow the sauce to cool slightly.
- Transfer to a jar or bottle and refrigerate.
Notes
Nutrition Facts
Approximate per serving — based on 8 servings
Nutrition information is an estimate and will vary depending on ingredients and brands used.
| Calories | 140 |
| Total Fat | 6g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Cholesterol | 15mg |
| Sodium | 560mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 21g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0g |
| Total Sugars | 18g |
| Protein | 1g |