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Homemade BBQ Sauce Recipe

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3.8 from 35 reviews

This rich and tangy BBQ Sauce Recipe combines classic flavors like tomato ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and smoky paprika to create a versatile sauce perfect for grilling, dipping, or marinating. Simmered to thicken, it delivers a balanced sweet, smoky, and slightly spicy flavor.

Ingredients

BBQ Sauce Ingredients

  • 1½ cups tomato ketchup
  • ¼ cup vegetarian Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ cup apple cider vinegar
  • ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon liquid smoke
  • 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • ½ cup water

Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: Add the tomato ketchup, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, light brown sugar, liquid smoke, yellow mustard, onion powder, paprika, ground black pepper, and water into a medium saucepan.
  2. Bring to Boil: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugars and blend the flavors.
  3. Simmer Sauce: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer. Let the sauce simmer uncovered for approximately 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
  4. Cool and Store: Remove the sauce from heat and allow it to cool slightly. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate. The sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 months.

Notes

  • Use vegetarian Worcestershire sauce to keep the recipe vegetarian.
  • Adjust the black pepper quantity to suit your preferred spice level.
  • Liquid smoke adds authentic smoky flavor, but can be omitted if unavailable.
  • For a thinner sauce, reduce simmering time; for thicker, simmer longer.
  • Great as a dipping sauce or marinade for grilled vegetables, tofu, or meat alternatives.