Unsweetened BBQ Sauce Recipe
The main specialty of this Unsweetened BBQ Sauce Recipe is that it delivers all the rich, smoky, and tangy flavors of traditional barbecue sauce without any added sugar. Using natural ingredients like tomato sauce, tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and optional liquid smoke, it creates a deep, savory taste perfect for grilling, dipping, or marinating. The sauce is fully customizable in terms of heat and thickness and is ideal for anyone following a low-carb, keto, or sugar free diet.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk or spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Container or jar for storage
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened tomato sauce
- 1 cup tomato paste or passata
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon liquid smoke
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ¼ cup water adjust for desired thickness
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce unsweetened
- Sugar free sweetener to taste (e.g., monk fruit, erythritol, stevia)
Instructions
Step 1 – Warm The Oil
- Pour 1 tablespoon of olive oil into a medium saucepan and heat it over medium heat for about 30 seconds, just until it’s warm.
Step 2 – Mix The Base
- Add the tomato sauce, tomato paste (or pasta), apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and water. Stir everything together so it’s well combined.
Step 3 – Add The Seasonings
- Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, chili powder, cayenne (if you like it spicy), Dijon mustard, and liquid smoke (if using). Give it a good stir so all the flavours come together.
Step 4 – Simmer The Sauce
- Turn the heat down to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 10–15 minutes, stirring now and then. Keep an eye on the thickness and add a little more water if it’s too thick. Taste and, if you want, add a sugar-free sweetener to balance the flavours.
Step 5 – Cool And Serve
- Take the pan off the heat and let the sauce cool for a bit. It’s perfect for grilled meats, roasted veggies, or just as a dipping sauce.