Transform your grilling game with this irresistible Mediterranean Diet Homemade Barbecue Sauce, a heart-healthy twist on a classic favorite. This flavorful sauce combines the richness of extra virgin olive oil and tomato paste with the tangy depth of balsamic vinegar and the natural sweetness of honey and pomegranate molasses. Bold spices like smoked paprika, ground cumin, and cayenne pepper add a smoky heat, while oregano lends a touch of Mediterranean flair. Perfectly balanced in taste and texture, this homemade barbecue sauce is crafted with wholesome ingredients, making it ideal for clean eating and Mediterranean-inspired meals. Use it as a marinade, a dipping sauce, or a zesty condiment to elevate grilled meats, roasted veggies, or grain bowls. Ready in just 35 minutes, this easy-to-make sauce is sure to become a staple in your kitchen, offering both deliciousness and versatility.
In a medium saucepan, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat.
Add the finely chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add the tomato paste and cook while stirring for 2 minutes, allowing the paste to darken slightly.
Pour in the balsamic vinegar, pomegranate molasses, and honey, stirring to combine.
Add the smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to the mixture. Stir well.
Gradually add the water, stirring continuously to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
Remove from heat and let the sauce cool slightly. For a smoother texture, you may blend the sauce using an immersion blender.
Transfer the sauce to a sterilized jar and allow it to cool completely before sealing with a lid.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Enjoy it as a marinade, dipping sauce, or as a condiment for your Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
Calories |
973 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 30.3 g | 39% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.4 g | 22% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2541 mg | 110% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 171.6 g | 62% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 11.8 g | 42% | |
| Total Sugars | 143.6 g | ||
| Protein | 11.7 g | 23% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 253 mg | 19% | |
| Iron | 11.2 mg | 62% | |
| Potassium | 2489 mg | 53% | |
*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.