Elevate your next cookout with this "Absolutely Awesome BBQ Sauce," a perfectly balanced blend of smoky, tangy, and sweet flavors. Crafted with pantry staples like ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and molasses, this homemade barbecue sauce is infused with a touch of Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika for a rich, robust taste. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a customizable hint of heat! Ready in just 25 minutes, this easy BBQ sauce recipe simmers to the perfect consistency, making it a versatile addition to grilled meats, burgers, or even as a dipping sauce. Store it in the fridge, where it only gets better with time, ensuring your meals are packed with bold, irresistible flavor!
In a medium saucepan, combine the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, light brown sugar, molasses, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
Stir the ingredients together over medium heat until they are fully combined and the sugar has dissolved.
Add the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, ground black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to incorporate the spices.
Pour in the water to thin the sauce slightly and stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. For more sweetness, add a small amount of brown sugar or molasses. For more tang, add a splash of apple cider vinegar.
Remove the sauce from the heat and let it cool slightly. Transfer it to a jar or sealable container for storage.
Use immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 weeks. The flavors will deepen over time, so it tastes even better after a day or two.
Calories |
321 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 6.7 g | 9% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.1 g | 0% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 927 mg | 40% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 61.8 g | 22% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.7 g | 10% | |
| Total Sugars | 52.6 g | ||
| Protein | 1.6 g | 3% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 94 mg | 7% | |
| Iron | 2.8 mg | 16% | |
| Potassium | 453 mg | 10% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.