Description
This Homemade Barbecue Sauce is a tangy and sweet ketchup-based sauce packed with smoky paprika, honey, and a touch of spice. Perfect for grilling, dipping, or marinating, it simmers gently to develop a rich, thick texture that enhances any meat or veggie dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Barbecue Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, add ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, honey, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper if using. Whisk together until smooth and well mixed.
- Simmer the Sauce: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and burning.
- Reduce and Thicken: Lower the heat to low and allow the sauce to cook gently for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally during this time until the sauce thickens to your preferred consistency.
- Cool and Store: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the sauce cool slightly before using. Use immediately or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
- Adjust sweetness by adding more honey if desired.
- Add extra cayenne pepper for increased spiciness.
- This sauce is versatile and great for grilling, dipping, or marinating meats.
