Are you a fan of sauces that add a burst of flavor to your meals? If so, you may have come across HP Sauce and BBQ Sauce.
While they may look similar in color, are they the same thing?
In this article, we’ll explore the differences between these two sauces and help you decide which one is right for your taste buds.
So, let’s dive in and find out if HP Sauce is the same as BBQ Sauce!
Is HP Sauce The Same As BBQ Sauce?
HP Sauce and BBQ Sauce may look similar in color, but they are not the same thing. While both sauces contain similar ingredients like vinegar, molasses, and sugar, there are some key differences that set them apart.
HP Sauce is a British brown sauce that has a tomato base blended with malt vinegar, spirit vinegar, sugars, dates, cornflour, rye flour, salt, spices, and tamarind. It has a tangy and savory flavor that is perfect for adding to hot and cold savory foods or using as an ingredient in soups and stews.
On the other hand, BBQ Sauce has a tomato ketchup base and contains mustard, garlic, chili powder, smoke flavor, oregano, and thyme. It has a sweet and smoky flavor that is perfect for adding to grilled meats like chicken, steak, or ribs.
While both sauces contain Worcestershire sauce and some kind of sugar (brown, molasses, white), HP Sauce contains dates, tamarind, allspice, and lemon juice which BBQ Sauce does not. BBQ Sauce contains mustard and can also contain garlic, chili powder, smoke flavor, oregano, and thyme which HP Sauce does not.
What Is HP Sauce?
HP Sauce is a popular brown sauce that has been loved worldwide for over 100 years. It is made from a unique blend of natural ingredients, including tamarinds, molasses, orange juice, apple juice, onions, garlic, mustard, dates, tomatoes, and exotic herbs and spices. These ingredients give the sauce its distinctive savory flavor that is perfect for adding to meat dishes or using as an ingredient in marinades, burgers, stir-fries, curries, and casseroles.
The sauce has a syrupy texture and a dark savory spice mouthfeel that serves as a bomb of flavor. Its main ingredients are malt vinegar made from barley, glucose-fructose syrup, sugar, cornflour, spirit vinegar, spices, and extracts from tomato & tamarind. The combination of tomatoes, malt and spirit vinegar as well as the tanginess of tamarind gives the sauce an overall tart but sweet flavoring. It has a hint of pepper and spice that is slightly similar to but stronger than Worcestershire Sauce.
HP Sauce has a variety of versions such as HP Fruity and HP Bold. HP Fruity is a milder version of the Original brown sauce that uses a blend of fruits including oranges and mango to give a milder tangier taste. HP Bold is a spicier version of the Original brown sauce that has a more intense flavor with added chili and spices.
Despite being high in calories, the fibers from the tomatoes and vitamins from vinegar give the sauce a nutritional value that overshadows the calorie count. HP Sauce is free from artificial preservatives and flavors which makes it a healthy option for adding flavor to your meals.
What Is BBQ Sauce?
BBQ sauce, also known as barbecue sauce, is a sauce that is used as a marinade, basting, or topping for meat cooked in the barbecue style. This sauce is typically tomato-based or vinegar-based and is a staple condiment in the Southern United States. BBQ sauce comes in many different flavors and styles, making it easy to find one that suits your taste buds. Some of the most common ingredients in BBQ sauce include ketchup, brown sugar, white wine vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika. Southwestern BBQ sauces often use seasonings like dry mustard, chili powder, red and black pepper, and horseradish. BBQ sauce can be used to flavor grilled meats like pork or beef ribs, chicken, or even vegetables. It can be used as a marinade before grilling or as a finishing sauce after cooking. Overall, BBQ sauce is a versatile condiment that adds flavor and depth to any dish cooked in the barbecue style.
Ingredients In HP Sauce Vs BBQ Sauce
When it comes to the ingredients in HP Sauce and BBQ Sauce, there are some notable differences. HP Sauce contains a tomato base blended with malt vinegar, spirit vinegar, sugars, dates, cornflour, rye flour, salt, spices, and tamarind. The tamarind gives HP Sauce its unique tangy flavor, while the spices add a savory note to the sauce.
On the other hand, BBQ Sauce has a tomato ketchup base and contains mustard, garlic, chili powder, smoke flavor, oregano, and thyme. The mustard gives BBQ Sauce its characteristic tangy flavor, while the smoke flavor adds a smoky note to the sauce.
Both sauces contain Worcestershire sauce and some kind of sugar (brown, molasses, white). However, HP Sauce contains dates, tamarind, allspice, and lemon juice which BBQ Sauce does not. These ingredients give HP Sauce its distinct fruity/spicy flavor profile. BBQ Sauce contains mustard and can also contain garlic, chili powder, smoke flavor, oregano, and thyme which HP Sauce does not.
Flavor Profile Comparison
When it comes to flavor, HP Sauce and BBQ Sauce have distinct differences. HP Sauce has a tangy and savory flavor due to the combination of malt vinegar, spirit vinegar, and tamarind. It also has a hint of pepper and spice that is slightly similar to but stronger than Worcestershire Sauce. The sauce has a syrupy texture and a dark savory spice mouthfeel that serves as a bomb of flavor.
On the other hand, BBQ Sauce has a sweet and smoky flavor due to the combination of tomato ketchup, mustard, garlic, chili powder, smoke flavor, oregano, and thyme. The sauce has a thicker consistency compared to HP Sauce and is perfect for adding to grilled meats like chicken, steak, or ribs.
While both sauces contain sugar and Worcestershire sauce, HP Sauce contains dates, tamarind, allspice, and lemon juice which give it a unique tangy and savory flavor. BBQ Sauce contains mustard which gives it a distinct tangy flavor that is not present in HP Sauce.
How To Use HP Sauce And BBQ Sauce In Cooking
HP Sauce and BBQ Sauce can be used in a variety of ways in cooking to add flavor to your dishes. Here are some ideas on how to use each sauce:
Which Sauce Is Better For You?
When it comes to choosing between HP Sauce and BBQ Sauce, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you plan on using the sauce for.
HP Sauce is a great option for those who enjoy a tangy and savory flavor. It contains natural ingredients like tamarinds, molasses, orange juice, apple juice, onions, garlic, mustard, dates, tomatoes, exotic herbs and spices – making it a healthier option compared to other sauces that contain artificial flavors and preservatives. It is also versatile and can be used as a condiment or an ingredient in marinades, burgers, stir-fries, curries, and casseroles.
On the other hand, BBQ Sauce is perfect for those who enjoy a sweet and smoky flavor. However, it is important to note that many brands of BBQ Sauce contain high levels of sugar and other unhealthy additives. If you are looking for a healthier option, it is important to read the label and look for brands that use natural ingredients.
Ultimately, the choice between HP Sauce and BBQ Sauce comes down to personal preference and what you plan on using the sauce for. Both sauces have their own unique flavor profiles and can be used in a variety of dishes.