Tangy & Sweet Homemade BBQ Sauce
This tangy and sweet homemade BBQ sauce is easy to make and perfect for grilling, dipping, or slathering on your favorite meats. It's a versatile condiment that will elevate any meal.
Equipment
- medium saucepan
- blender (optional) / immersion blender (optional)
Ingredients
BBQ Sauce Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 ½ cups ketchup
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup brown sugar packed
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch cayenne pepper optional
Instructions
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Pour in ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Add smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well until combined.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow flavors to meld.
- For a super smooth sauce, carefully transfer the mixture to a blender or use an immersion blender and blend until completely smooth. You can skip this step if you prefer a chunkier sauce.
- Return the sauce to the saucepan (if using a stand blender). Simmer on low for another 5-10 minutes, uncovered, until it reaches your desired thickness. The sauce will thicken further as it cools.
Notes
For a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper. This sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.