The inquiry regarding the origin of the condiment used to enhance grilled meats is a complex one, lacking a definitive single point of creation. The evolution of this flavorful addition to cuisine spans centuries, influenced by diverse culinary traditions and regional preferences. It did not emerge from a single inventor at a specific date.
Tracing the roots of this ubiquitous condiment reveals a gradual development. Early forms, often based on simple combinations of vinegar, spices, and other readily available ingredients, were likely developed independently in various regions. The use of sauces to flavor and preserve meat dates back to ancient times, but the modern interpretation finds its genesis in the colonial period in America, with influences from European and Caribbean cooking.