This BBQ sauce rivals anything you’d find at your grocery store!
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I’m rather obsessed with BBQ sauce. We have a lot of great local BBQ sauce makers and whenever I can, I buy a bottle at my co-op. What I love about this sassy sauce, is that there are countless regional variations, each with distinct flavors. BBQ sauce can be tangy, spicy, sweet, or all of the above. They can be soy-based, mustard-based, vinegar-based, or again, all of the above. And you can use it with everything, from pizzas to burgers. And boy do they make a great marinade!
This BBQ sauce recipe is perhaps more traditional. You start with brown sugar which provides a rich sweetness, while the apple cider vinegar adds a tangy zing. But the key ingredient here is paprika which gives it a subtle smokiness. This BBQ sauce is versatile enough to complement a variety of grilled dishes, especially grilled chicken and burgers.
Of course, since this is a more traditional BBQ sauce, it’s not exactly keto-friendly. Not to worry! This Easy Keto BBQ Sauce or this Low-Carb Sugar-Free BBQ Sauce are worthy alternatives!
Is BBQ Sauce Healthy?
BBQ sauce can be part of a healthy diet when used in moderation. I’m not gonna lie -there’s a ⅓ cup of brown sugar in this sauce. That said, just look at the ingredients of the store-bought variety and you’ll notice that a lot of them contain high-fructose corn syrup and preservatives. This homemade sauce allows you to control the ingredients. So feel free to reduce the sugar or substitute it with honey or maple syrup. You can also opt for low-sodium ketchup and/or Worcestershire sauce.
The Role of Apple Cider Vinegar…
Apple cider vinegar is a key ingredient in this BBQ sauce. It gives the sauce a tanginess that balances with the sweetness of the brown sugar and ketchup. Typically, BBQ sauce uses white vinegar but I prefer apple cider vinegar because it brings a subtle fruitiness and a mild tartness. Also, it gets bonus points for its health benefits like aiding digestion and providing antioxidants!
INGREDIENTS
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
INSTRUCTIONS
Combine
Mix all ingredients in a saucepan.
Simmer
Cook mixture until it thickens.
Cool
Allow to cool before using or storing.
Devour!
FAQs & Tips
BBQ sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Just be sure to use an airtight jar or container. For longer storage, it can be frozen for up to 3 months.
If you like it more sweet, simply add more sugar, but start with a teaspoon or two. Better yet, try adding honey or maple syrup. To increase the tang, simply add more apple cider vinegar. Again, start small. A little vinegar goes a long way.
White vinegar is a bit more sharp compared to apple cider vinegar, but you can use it.
Serving Suggestions
With summer in full swing, I plan on slathering this BBQ sauce on Grilled Chicken, Ribs, and Burgers. Heck, I’ll probably use it as a dip for my French Fries and Roasted Veggies, too. And if you’re planning your own BBQ feast, don’t forget the Coleslaw and Corn on the Cob. This BBQ sauce will pair with practically any grilled favorite of yours!
BBQ Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
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In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and kosher salt.
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Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
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Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and let the sauce cook for 15 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency, stirring occasionally.
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Remove from heat and allow the BBQ sauce to cool. It can be used immediately or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Nutrition
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