- 1 ½ cups ketchup
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
- ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoons paprika
- 2 teaspoons 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoons ground black pepper
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup water
Optional Add-Ins
- Pinch Pinch of cayenne pepper for heat
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for smoky flavor
- 1 tablespoon honey for added sweetness
- Small splash of liquid smoke for grilled flavor
Combine Ingredients: Add ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, paprika, onion powder, black pepper, garlic, and water to a medium saucepan. Stir until well combined.Bring to a Gentle Boil: Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir occasionally until the mixture begins to bubble gently.Simmer the Sauce: Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.Adjust the Flavor: Taste the sauce and adjust if needed. Add extra sugar for sweetness, vinegar for tang, or cayenne for spice.Cool and Store: Remove from heat and let cool completely. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving for the best flavor.
- The sauce thickens more as it cools.
- For a smoother texture, blend briefly after cooling.
- Smoked paprika adds deeper barbecue flavor.
- Letting the sauce rest in the refrigerator helps the flavors blend and mellow.
- Store refrigerated for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Skill Level: Easy
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 56 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Protein: 0.3g
- Fat: 0.1g
- Sugar: Approx. 12g
- Sodium: Varies depending on ketchup and Worcestershire sauce brands
