Description
This homemade barbecue sauce recipe offers a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and smoky flavors. Made with simple pantry ingredients like ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and spices, it’s easy to prepare on the stovetop and ideal for glazing, marinating, or dipping. The sauce cooks to a thick, rich consistency within 20 minutes, making it a quick and versatile condiment for all your grilling and cooking needs.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, add the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, honey, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir well to make sure all ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
- Simmer the Sauce: Place the saucepan over medium heat and warm the mixture until it just begins to gently simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.
- Reduce Heat and Thicken: Lower the heat to low and let the sauce cook uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally as the sauce thickens to your preferred consistency.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed by adding more salt, sugar, or spices to suit your preference.
- Cool and Store: Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the barbecue sauce to cool slightly. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. The sauce will keep well for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
- For a sweeter sauce, increase the amount of honey or brown sugar.
- For a smokier flavor, add a drop of liquid smoke.
- Works great as a marinade, glaze, or dipping sauce.
