Homemade BBQ Sauce Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup tomato sauce (or ketchup, for a sweeter base)
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (adjust for sweetness)
• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (for a natural sweetener)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika (adds that smoky BBQ flavor)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp chili powder or cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (optional for richness)

Instructions:

1. Mix Ingredients: In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the tomato sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Stir well to dissolve the sugar.
2. Add Flavorings: Add the honey, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and chili powder (if using). Stir until all the ingredients are well mixed.
3. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once it starts to bubble, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken as it cooks.
4. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the sweetness, tanginess, or heat to your preference. Add more vinegar for tang, sugar for sweetness, or chili powder for extra spice.
5. Cool and Store: Remove from heat and allow the sauce to cool. Once cooled, transfer to a jar or airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Tip: This sauce can be used as a marinade, glaze, or dipping sauce for grilled meats, veggies, or even burgers!

Enjoy your preservative-free, flavorful homemade BBQ sauce!