Root beer, orange juice, ketchup and brown sugar combine to make a truly delicious, sweet and spicy barbecue sauce. The sauce may be made and refrigerated up to 2 weeks in advance.

• 1 cup root beer
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (grate the rind before squeezing!)
• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
• 3 Tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 3 Tablespoons dark brown sugar
• 2 Tablespoons Maple Syrup
• 1 teaspoon freshly grated lemon zest (see above)
• 1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon good-quality garlic powder
• Salt & freshly ground pepper

Combine all of the ingredients in a heavy medium-sized saucepan. Season with salt and pepper. Bring the sauce to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat and simmer until the sauce is reduced to 2 cups, about 20 minutes. Adjust the seasoning. Transfer the sauce to a container, cover and refrigerate.

Makes about 2 Cups