In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, add olive oil (tilting sauce pan until bottom is coated with oil). Add onion and garlic and sauté for a couple minutes until onions are translucent.
Add the brown sugar, ketchup, ginger, Root Beer, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, orange juice, vinegar, smoked paprika, and honey. tir together until combined. Bring just to a boil and then reduce heat to medium-low and let simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes (stirring occasionally). Onions should be soft.
Taste the sauce and add salt to taste.
If you would like the sauce a little sweeter, add 1 teaspoon of brown sugar at a time. If you prefer a spicier heat, then add 1/4 teaspoon of Chipotle Chile Powder at a time until spicy taste reaches your preference.
Store any unused barbecue sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
* The common version of root beer that we know today is not an alcoholic beverage, but a sweet soda pop that can be enjoyed by all ages. Root beer is almost exclusively a North American drink. Can use any brand of Root Beer that you prefer.
Photo from Soda Emporium
** If you prefer a spicier sauce, then add the Chipotle Chile Powder.
Root Beer Barbecue Sauce Recipe: https://whatscookingamerica.net/sauces_condiments/rootbeer-barbecuesauce.htm