What flavor profile is typical for Kansas City barbecue sauces?

Kansas City barbecue sauces are well-known for their sweet and thick consistency, primarily due to being tomato-based. This style of sauce often incorporates ingredients such as brown sugar or molasses to enhance the sweetness, achieving a rich, complex flavor that complements the smoked meats typically associated with the region. Additionally, Kansas City barbecue sauce may include a blend of spices, but the prevailing characteristic remains its deep sweetness, making it a signature element of the local barbecue cuisine. The use of tomato as a base differentiates it from other regional sauces that might lean more towards vinegar or mustard bases, aligning tightly with the unique flavor profile celebrated in Kansas City barbecue culture.