Coca-Cola Barbecue Sauce

Source: Jim Budros, a champion at the Kansas City Royal International Barbecue Contest, as printed in "Barbecue! Bible Sauces, Rubs, and Marinades, Bastes, Butters & Glazes"

1 cup Coca-Cola
1 cup ketchup
1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon liquid smoke
1/2 cup A-1 Steak Sauce
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon freshly-ground black pepper

Combine all the ingredients in a heavy, nonreactive saucepan (not uncoated aluminum or cast iron).

Gradually bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat slightly to obtain a gentle simmer. Simmer the sauce until reduced by a quarter, 6 to 8 minutes.

Use right away or transfer to a large jar, cover, cool to room temperature and refrigerate. The sauce will keep for several months.