No Ketchup BBQ Sauce Recipe

Samia

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.

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 20

Total Time 25

Servings: 2 cups

Course: Sauce / Condiment

Cuisine: American (Southern style BBQ)

Calories: 45

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

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

Equipment

Medium saucepan
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk
Airtight glass jar or container for storage

Method

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.

Nutrition Facts