Classic Homemade Bar B Que Sauce

Name: Classic Homemade Bar B Que Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 2 cups
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1 cup ketchup (preferably organic); 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar; 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed); 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 2 tbsp maple syrup (or to taste); 1 tbsp mustard (Dijon or yellow); 1 tbsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp black pepper (freshly ground); 1 tsp salt; 1 clove garlic (minced)

40 min 2 cups Easy

All Recipes

A tangy and rich bar b que sauce recipe perfect for grilling season.

Prep

10 min

Cook

30 min

Total

40 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Bar b que sauce is a staple in many Canadian households, especially during the grilling season. This homemade version combines the perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and smoky flavours, making it a great addition to any grilled meat. This sauce works well because it uses a blend of quality ingredients simmered to perfection. It's versatile and can be adjusted according to your taste preferences, whether you prefer it a bit sweeter or with more heat. Whether you're an experienced griller or just starting, this homemade bar b que sauce is simple to make and will elevate your dishes to a new level of deliciousness.

Instructions

Prepare ingredients

Gather all ingredients and measure them out as listed to streamline the cooking process.

Pro tip: Using fresh garlic enhances the flavour.

Combine base ingredients

In a medium saucepan, combine the ketchup and apple cider vinegar over medium heat.

Add sweeteners

Stir in the brown sugar and maple syrup until fully dissolved.

Pro tip: Adjust maple syrup for desired sweetness.

Incorporate spices

Mix in Worcestershire sauce, mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.

Pro tip: For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Simmer the sauce

Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Pro tip: The sauce should thicken and deepen in colour.

Final adjustments

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or sugar as preferred.

Cool and store

Let the sauce cool completely before transferring to a jar or bottle for storage.

Pro tip: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.

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Tips & Tricks

Use fresh garlic for a more robust flavour.
Simmer the sauce slowly to deepen the flavours.
Adjust the sweetness with maple syrup to taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients are in bar b que sauce?

Bar b que sauce typically includes ketchup, vinegar, sweeteners like brown sugar or maple syrup, and spices such as smoked paprika and garlic powder.

How long does homemade bar b que sauce last?

Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it lasts up to two weeks.

Can I make bar b que sauce without sugar?

Yes, you can substitute sugar with natural sweeteners like honey or more maple syrup, or reduce the amount entirely to taste.

Is bar b que sauce gluten-free?

This recipe is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and other labeled gluten-free ingredients.

How many calories are in homemade bar b que sauce?

This recipe has approximately 120 calories per serving (1/4 cup).

Serving Suggestions

Serve this bar b que sauce with grilled chicken, ribs, or even as a dipping sauce for fries. It pairs well with a tangy coleslaw and cornbread for a complete meal. The sauce can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, making it convenient for busy grilling days.