Famous Dave's BBQ Sauce Calorie Breakdown by Flavor
Famous Dave's offers a range of BBQ sauces, and the calories can differ based on the specific flavor profile. The majority of the calories in these sauces come from sugars, including high fructose corn syrup, molasses, and honey. A standard serving size is typically 2 tablespoons. Below is a detailed breakdown of some of the most popular varieties.
Rich & Sassy BBQ Sauce
Famous Dave's Rich & Sassy is one of the most well-known flavors, recognized for its Kansas City-style balance of sweet and tangy flavors. A 2-tablespoon serving of the Rich & Sassy sauce contains approximately 60 calories. The calorie content is composed almost entirely of carbohydrates, specifically sugars, with minimal to no fat. For those tracking macros, this sauce provides a straightforward way to add flavor without adding a significant amount of fat.
Devil's Spit BBQ Sauce
For those who prefer a hotter, spicier flavor, Devil's Spit is the go-to. This sauce is formulated with a devilishly hot blend of peppers. A 2-tablespoon serving of Devil's Spit contains slightly fewer calories than the Rich & Sassy, with around 50 calories per serving. It is also fat-free, making it another option for those focused on limiting fat intake. The fiery kick comes from hot peppers rather than added sugars, contributing to its slightly lower calorie count.
Sweet & Zesty BBQ Sauce
True to its name, the Sweet & Zesty sauce offers a noticeably sweeter flavor profile. It contains a higher concentration of sugars, resulting in a slightly higher calorie count. Nutrition information from sources like Nutritionix indicate that the Sweet & Zesty sauce contains approximately 70 calories per 2-tablespoon serving. This increase in calories reflects the sauce's sweeter composition, which is ideal for those who prefer a more pronounced sweet taste in their BBQ.
The Importance of Serving Size
When it comes to sauces, serving sizes are often smaller than what people actually use. While the standard 2-tablespoon serving is used for nutritional labeling, many people use more than this amount when cooking or dipping. It is crucial to be mindful of how much sauce is actually being consumed to accurately track calorie intake. For example, using a quarter-cup of sauce instead of two tablespoons could double the calorie count from 60 to 120 calories, an easy mistake to make when grilling ribs or chicken.
Nutritional Information Breakdown
Here's a comparison table illustrating the nutritional differences between several Famous Dave's BBQ sauce flavors based on a 2-tablespoon serving:
| Nutrient | Rich & Sassy | Devil's Spit | Sweet & Zesty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 60 | 50 | 70 |
| Total Fat | 0g | 0g | 0g |
| Total Carbohydrate | 14g | 12g | 18g |
| Sugars | 13g | 10g | 16g |
| Protein | 1g | 1g | 0g |
| Sodium | 360mg | 360mg | 330mg |
How to Manage Calories from BBQ Sauce
For those looking to enjoy Famous Dave's sauces while managing their calorie intake, there are several strategies.
- Measure your portions: Instead of pouring directly from the bottle, measure out a 2-tablespoon serving with a measuring spoon. This ensures accuracy and prevents accidental overconsumption.
- Use it as a marinade: Instead of lathering on a thick layer at the end of cooking, use the sauce as a marinade beforehand. This infuses flavor into the meat with less sauce used for serving.
- Opt for lower-calorie flavors: If you're highly conscious of calorie intake, choose a flavor like Devil's Spit, which has a lower sugar and calorie content.
- Dilute with other ingredients: For certain recipes, you can dilute the BBQ sauce with other low-calorie liquids like broth or vinegar to stretch it further without adding too many extra calories.
Conclusion
While Famous Dave's BBQ sauces are a delicious way to add flavor to your meals, it's important to be aware of their nutritional content, particularly the calorie and sugar counts. The Rich & Sassy flavor generally sits at around 60 calories per 2-tablespoon serving, with variations like Devil's Spit being slightly lower and Sweet & Zesty slightly higher. By measuring your portions and choosing your flavors wisely, you can enjoy these savory sauces as part of a balanced diet. Always check the label of the specific product you purchase, as formulations can change over time. For more information on nutritional values, consult the official Famous Dave's website or resources like EWG's Food Scores for detailed ingredient information.
Note on Ingredients: Most Famous Dave's sauces contain high fructose corn syrup as a primary ingredient, contributing significantly to the sugar and calorie content. Some also contain soy and gluten (from barley malt flour). Always check the ingredient list for allergen information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Famous Dave's BBQ sauce healthy?
Famous Dave's BBQ sauce is not typically considered a 'healthy' food due to its high sugar and sodium content, but it can be enjoyed in moderation within a balanced diet.
What is the primary source of calories in Famous Dave's BBQ sauce?
The primary sources of calories are various types of sugar, including high fructose corn syrup, molasses, and honey, which contribute to the sauce's total carbohydrate content.
How does the calorie count of Famous Dave's BBQ sauce compare to other brands?
The calorie count is comparable to many other commercial BBQ sauces on the market, which often feature high sugar content. Some specialty or diet brands may offer lower-calorie options.
Are there any fat-free Famous Dave's BBQ sauce options?
Yes, several flavors, including Rich & Sassy and Devil's Spit, are listed as fat-free, with zero grams of fat per serving.
Can I use Famous Dave's BBQ sauce on a low-carb diet?
Given the high sugar and carbohydrate content, Famous Dave's BBQ sauce should be used sparingly on a low-carb or ketogenic diet. Many brands offer dedicated sugar-free or low-carb BBQ sauces.
Do the restaurant's sauces have the same calories as the bottled grocery versions?
There may be slight variations between the sauces served in Famous Dave's restaurants and the bottled versions sold in stores due to ingredient sourcing and formulation differences. It's always best to check the nutritional info for the specific product.
How can I reduce my calorie intake while using Famous Dave's BBQ sauce?
To reduce calorie intake, you can measure your portion size accurately, use the sauce as a marinade instead of a glaze, and opt for a flavor with a lower calorie count, like Devil's Spit.
