Description
This homemade barbecue sauce is a sweet and tangy condiment crafted from simple pantry staples like ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Perfectly balanced with smoky paprika and a hint of spice, it enhances grilled meats, serves as a flavorful marinade, or acts as a delicious dipping sauce. Made on the stovetop, this easy recipe yields a thick, richly flavored sauce that can be stored for up to a week.
Ingredients
Scale
Barbecue Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Stir thoroughly to blend all components into a smooth mixture.
- Simmer the Sauce: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Allow the sauce to cook uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to help thicken the sauce and develop flavors.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, sugar, or spices according to your preference for sweetness, tang, or heat.
- Cool and Store: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the barbecue sauce cool slightly. Use immediately or transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Notes
- For a sweeter sauce, add more brown sugar or a tablespoon of honey.
- To give a smokier flavor, add a dash of liquid smoke.
- This sauce is perfect for grilling, marinating, or dipping your favorite meats and vegetables.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 60
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg