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The Best Easy Homemade BBQ Sauce: Sweet, Smoky, and Tangy

Close-up of thick, dark red homemade bbq sauce glistening in a small white ramekin.
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Make this sweet, smoky, and tangy homemade BBQ sauce from scratch using simple pantry staples. It is faster and tastes better than store-bought sauce, perfect for ribs, chicken, or dipping.

Ingredients

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  • 1 1/2 cups ketchup
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Combine the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using) in a medium saucepan.
  2. Whisk the ingredients together until the brown sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
  3. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Do not let it boil rapidly.
  4. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. This allows the flavors to meld.
  5. Remove the saucepan from the heat. The sauce will thicken slightly as it cools.
  6. Transfer the sauce to an airtight container. You can use it immediately or store it in the refrigerator.

Notes

  • For a thicker sauce, simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
  • If you prefer a tangier sauce, increase the apple cider vinegar by 1 tablespoon.
  • This sauce keeps well in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
  • Use this versatile barbecue sauce recipe for grilling, marinating, or as a dipping sauce.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://daisyrecipe.com/easy-homemade-bbq-sauce-recipe/