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The Ultimate Quick & Easy Homemade BBQ Sauce: Sweet, Smoky, and Tangy

Close-up of rich, glossy homemade bbq sauce served in a small white fluted ramekin.
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Make the best homemade barbecue sauce from scratch in minutes. This recipe delivers a perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and tangy flavor, ideal for all your grilling needs.

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
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Instructions

  1. Combine the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and yellow mustard in a medium saucepan.
  2. Stir in the smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper, if using.
  3. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
  4. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
  5. Remove the sauce from the heat. Allow it to cool for 5 minutes before using. The sauce will thicken more as it cools.
  6. Use this flavorful barbecue condiment as a glaze for grilling meats or as a dipping sauce.

Notes

  • For a copycat Sweet Baby Ray’s flavor profile, increase the brown sugar slightly and ensure you use a good quality ketchup.
  • If you prefer a tangier vinegar BBQ sauce, add 1 extra tablespoon of apple cider vinegar after simmering.
  • Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Nutrition

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