Description
This homemade BBQ sauce is a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and smoky flavors made from simple pantry staples. Easy to prepare on the stovetop, it thickens to a rich consistency ideal for ribs, chicken, burgers, or as a dipping sauce. Customizable with extra sweetness, heat, or tang, this classic American BBQ sauce is gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly.
Ingredients
Scale
BBQ Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- a pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
- ¼ cup water
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine all the ingredients: ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, cayenne pepper if using, and water. Stir well to blend all flavors.
- Simmer the Sauce: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer on medium heat, then reduce the heat to low. Allow it to simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the sauce thickens and the flavors meld perfectly.
- Cool and Store: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the sauce cool slightly. Use immediately on your favorite grilled dishes or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate. The sauce can be stored for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more brown sugar for a sweeter sauce.
- Add extra cayenne pepper for increased heat.
- Increase apple cider vinegar for a tangier flavor.
- This sauce is versatile and pairs wonderfully with ribs, chicken, burgers, or as a dipping sauce for fries and veggies.
