To make a basic homemade barbecue sauce, you can follow this simple recipe that balances sweetness, tanginess, and a bit of spice:
Ingredients
- 2 cups ketchup
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (or coconut aminos for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon seasoning blend (such as a mix of salt, black pepper, and garlic powder)
- 1/4 teaspoon hot sauce (optional for heat)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk together all the ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle bubble, then reduce the heat to low.
- Let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens, about 10 minutes.
- Serve immediately or cool and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
This sauce is sweet, tangy, and flavorful, perfect for marinating, dipping, or basting grilled meats
Additional Tips
- You can make a no-cook version by simply whisking all ingredients together and using immediately or storing.
- For a thicker or more intense flavor, simmering the sauce longer helps.
- Variations include adding smoked paprika, mustard, garlic powder, or substituting molasses for brown sugar for a richer taste
- Store leftover sauce in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for longer storage
This basic recipe provides a great starting point, and you can adjust the sweetness, acidity, and spice to your taste.
