When should BBQ sauce typically be applied to meat while grilling?

Applying BBQ sauce near the end of cooking is ideal for several reasons. Barbecue sauces often contain sugars and other ingredients that can caramelize quickly, leading to burning or charring if applied too early. By waiting until the final stages of the cooking process, you allow the meat to cook thoroughly and develop its flavor without risking the sauce burning off, which would detract from the overall taste. This method also enables the sauce to adhere better to the surface of the meat, creating a flavorful glaze that enhances the overall experience.

Additionally, applying the sauce at this point allows for the chance to develop a rich, deep flavor profile as the sauce caramelizes slightly when exposed to the heat without becoming overly charred. This technique is especially popular with grilling meats like ribs, chicken, or brisket, where a sticky, flavorful coating at the finish elevates the dish.