Heading west toward Missouri, the sauce darkens, deepens, and sweetens, thanks to molasses and bottled smoke.

Ingredients

　　1 small onion, grated

　　2 tablespoons vegetable oil

　　1 cup ketchup

　　1/2 cup molasses

　　1/4 cup cider vinegar

　　2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

　　2 to 3 tablespoons bottled smoke

　　1 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper

　　1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, or to taste

　　1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste

　　COOK the onion in the oil in a small saucepan over medium heat until tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in the remaining ingredients. Simmer for a few minutes until thickened and smooth.

　　Cheater BBQ