No Ketchup BBQ Sauce Recipe is a rich, flavourful homemade sauce made without using any ketchup. This No Ketchup BBQ Sauce Recipe tastes incredibly delicious, with a balance of sweet, tangy, and smoky notes.
I made this No Ketchup BBQ Sauce Recipe because I wanted a more natural version of BBQ sauce without processed ingredients.
I was inspired after watching a southern cooking show where everything was made from scratch. The main specialty of this No Ketchup BBQ Sauce Recipe is its deep flavor from molasses, honey, and spices.
I will now show up and show step by step how this No Ketchup BBQ Sauce Recipe is made at home.
Why This No Ketchup BBQ Sauce Recipe Is A Must Try?
This No Ketchup BBQ Sauce Recipe offers a rich, balanced flavor by combining tangy apple cider vinegar, deep molasses sweetness, and a touch of heat from cayenne.
The absence of ketchup allows the natural tomato puree to shine without added sugars or preservatives, creating a cleaner, more wholesome sauce.
The blend of spices enhances complexity, making it ideal for glazing meats, dipping, or spreading. Its homemade nature ensures freshness and customization, providing a healthier and more satisfying alternative to store bought versions.
How To Prepare No Ketchup BBQ Sauce Recipe?
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Course: Sauce / Condiment
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American (Southern style BBQ)
Yield: About 2 cups of BBQ sauce
Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Airtight glass jar or container (for storage)
Ingredients
- 1 cup tomato sauce or unsweetened tomato puree
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup molasses
- ¼ cup honey
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ½ cup water
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
How To Make No Ketchup BBQ Sauce Recipe?
1. Warm The Oil
Place a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add olive or vegetable oil and let it heat for about a minute.
2. Cook The Spices
Add paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, and cayenne pepper if using. Stir constantly for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add Liquids
Pour in tomato sauce, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, molasses, honey, and water. Stir everything together until smooth.
4. Incorporate Sweeteners
Add brown sugar and stir until it’s fully dissolved.
5. Season The Sauce
Sprinkle in sea salt. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and black pepper as needed.
6. Simmer Until Thickened
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat and cook uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring now and then, until the sauce thickens.
7. Cool And Store
Take the pan off the heat and let the sauce cool completely. Transfer to a clean jar or airtight container.
Note
If you prefer a smoother sauce, feel free to blend it after cooking. Also, homemade BBQ sauce tends to thicken more when chilled, so thin with a splash of water before using if needed.
Nutrition Facts Per Serving
| Nutrition | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 45 |
| Fat | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 6g |
| Sugars | 4g |
| Protein | 1g |
| Sodium | 150mg |
Best Variations
➢ Add smoked paprika or a small amount of liquid smoke to introduce a smoky depth.
➢ Mix in brewed coffee or espresso to enhance richness and add complexity.
➢ Use maple syrup instead of honey for a unique, earthy sweetness.
➢ Incorporate chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a spicy, smoky twist.
Secrets To Perfect No Ketchup BBQ Sauce Recipe
➣ Use unsweetened tomato puree to control sweetness and maintain a natural tomato flavor.
➣ Incorporate molasses and brown sugar for depth and richness without making the sauce too sweet.
➣ Balance acidity by carefully measuring apple cider vinegar to avoid overpowering sharpness.
➣ Simmer the sauce slowly to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken evenly.
➣ Adjust water gradually to achieve the desired consistency without thinning out the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
1. Glaze grilled chicken, ribs, or pork for a rich, tangy finish.
2. Use as a dipping sauce for fries, onion rings, or chicken tenders.
3. Mix into pulled pork sandwiches or burgers to enhance taste.
4. Drizzle on baked beans or use as a marinade before cooking.
5. Brush over roasted vegetables to add flavorful depth.
Storage And Shelf Life No Ketchup BBQ Sauce Recipe
Store the No Ketchup BBQ Sauce Recipe in an airtight container or glass jar in the refrigerator. Properly refrigerated, the No Ketchup BBQ Sauce Recipe can last up to two weeks.
Stir the No Ketchup BBQ Sauce Recipe before each use, as natural separation may occur. For longer storage, freeze the No Ketchup BBQ Sauce Recipe in portioned containers for up to three months.
Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating. Avoid contamination by using clean utensils when scooping the No Ketchup BBQ Sauce Recipe. This helps maintain freshness and prevents spoilage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can This BBQ Sauce Be Made Vegan?
Yes, replacing honey with maple syrup or agave nectar makes it vegan friendly.
How Spicy Is The Sauce?
The cayenne pepper adds mild heat but can be omitted or adjusted to taste.
Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead Of Tomato Sauce?
Fresh tomatoes can be used but should be cooked down into a thick puree first.
How Thick Will The Sauce Be?
Simmering reduces the sauce to a medium thick consistency, adjustable by adding water.
Does The Sauce Contain Gluten?
All ingredients listed are naturally gluten free, but check Worcestershire sauce labels to confirm.
Conclusion
My easy and delicious No Ketchup BBQ Sauce Recipe turned out to be a great success, and I truly enjoyed making it from scratch.
I hope you feel inspired to try it too and enjoy the rich, homemade flavor. No Ketchup BBQ Sauce Recipe easy make.
Now you will make soon and tell me how much delicious after make. I’m excited to hear how it turns out for you and hope it becomes one of your favourite homemade No Ketchup BBQ Sauce Recipe.
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Horseradish BBQ Sauce | Southern Style
Dreamland BBQ Sauce Recipe || Rich Flavor
Wendy’s BBQ Sauce Recipe | Sweetness
No Ketchup BBQ Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add olive or vegetable oil and let it heat for about a minute.
- Add paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, and cayenne pepper if using. Stir constantly for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in tomato sauce, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, molasses, honey, and water. Stir everything together until smooth.
- Add brown sugar and stir until it’s fully dissolved.
- Sprinkle in sea salt. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and black pepper as needed.
- Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat and cook uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring now and then, until the sauce thickens.
- Take the pan off the heat and let the sauce cool completely. Transfer to a clean jar or airtight container.
Notes
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 45 | Fat: 2g | Carbohydrates: 6g | Sugars: 4g | Protein: 1g | Sodium: 150mg“Hi, I’m Samia, a passionate recipe creator with 5 years of experience in crafting delicious, unique dishes. My love for cooking has led me to explore a variety of cuisines, combining flavors to create memorable meals for every occasion. Whether it’s a simple weeknight dinner or an elaborate feast, I believe in making every dish special. Join me on my culinary journey as I share easy-to-follow recipes and tips that will inspire your cooking and bring joy to your kitchen!”