No Ketchup BBQ Sauce Recipe
No Ketchup BBQ Sauce Recipe blends natural tomato puree, apple cider vinegar, molasses, honey, and spices for a rich, tangy flavor without added sugars. Simmering thickens the sauce and develops depth. It works well as a glaze, dip, or marinade. The recipe is easy to customise for sweetness, spice, and consistency, offering a wholesome alternative to store-bought sauces.
Equipment
- 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
Instructions
Warm The Oil
- Place a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add olive or vegetable oil and let it heat for about a minute.
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.
Add Liquids
- Pour in tomato sauce, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, molasses, honey, and water. Stir everything together until smooth.
Incorporate Sweeteners
- Add brown sugar and stir until it’s fully dissolved.
Season The Sauce
- Sprinkle in sea salt. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and black pepper as needed.
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.
Cool And Store
- Take the pan off the heat and let the sauce cool completely. Transfer to a clean jar or airtight container.
Notes
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.