Here in the U.S., there are two basics rib sauces, one vinegar based and the other tomato based. Here's good examples of both:
Kansas City Bar-B-Que Suace (Tomato Base)
1-1/2 cups water
1/2 cup tomato ketchup
1/3 cup vinegar, cider or white
1/4 cup tomato paste
1/4 cup molasses
2 tablespoons white sugar
1 teaspoon liquid smoke flavoring
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
1/8 teaspoon celery seed
1/8 teaspoon dried dillweed
Stir the ingredients together over medium-high heat until the mixture begins to boil. Lower the heat and continue to simmer uncovered, stirring often, until the barbecue sauce thickens. Twenty minutes to a half-hour is all it should take.
This barbecue sauce can be used hot off the stove on your favorite barbecued ribs or smoked brisket. If you like a spicier sauce, increase the amount of black pepper to one full teaspoon.
If you like, you can use this sauce on the meat as it's cooking. The sugar and molasses in the sauce will burn quickly, so it's best to brush it on only during the last fifteen to twenty minutes.
South Carolina Rib Sauce (Vinegar Base)
1 cup cider vinegar
1/4 cup water
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspon of red pepper flakes
Mix the ingredients in a non-reactive bowl (glass, plastic or stainless steel) or in a glass jar until the sugar is completely dissolved.
In this recipe, use both powdered cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes for an added kick. If you'd like something a bit milder, you can decrease the amount of cayenne used.
Good luck!