Homemade Barbecue Sauce

Name: Homemade Barbecue Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 16 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup ketchup (preferably without high fructose corn syrup); 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar (brings tanginess); 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed); 2 tablespoons molasses (for depth of flavour); 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for smoky flavour); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground); 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

35 min 16 servings Easy

All Recipes

Create a versatile homemade barbecue sauce perfect for chicken, ribs, or burgers.

Prep

10 min

Cook

25 min

Total

35 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Barbecue sauce is a staple condiment that elevates the flavour of grilled meats and vegetables. Whether you're planning a summer cookout or simply want to add a tangy kick to your meals, making your own barbecue sauce at home is both rewarding and delicious. This homemade barbecue sauce recipe is simple and adaptable. With ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, you can whip up a batch in no time that rivals any store-bought version. It's perfect for basting chicken, slathering on ribs, or even as a dipping sauce for fries.

Instructions

Combine ingredients

In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, molasses, and Worcestershire sauce.

Pro tip: Mix well to dissolve the brown sugar completely.

Add spices

Stir in smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.

Pro tip: Adjust the cayenne pepper according to your heat preference.

Simmer the sauce

Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

Pro tip: Watch closely to prevent burning.

Reduce heat

Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.

Pro tip: The sauce should coat the back of a spoon.

Taste and adjust

Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as desired. You may add more sugar for sweetness or vinegar for tanginess.

Cool and store

Remove from heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container.

Pro tip: Refrigerate for up to two weeks.

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Tips & Tricks

Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar.
For a smoky flavour, add a teaspoon of liquid smoke.
Use fresh garlic for a more robust taste.
Store in the fridge for up to two weeks in an airtight container.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make a barbecue sauce like St-Hubert?

To mimic St-Hubert's sauce, include a bit of chicken broth and a splash of soy sauce for umami.

What's a homemade BBQ sauce recipe for chicken?

This recipe works great for chicken. Add extra cayenne if you prefer it spicier.

Can I make BBQ sauce with ketchup?

Yes, ketchup is the base of this recipe, providing sweetness and tang.

How long does it take to make BBQ sauce?

This BBQ sauce takes about 35 minutes from start to finish.

What's a quick BBQ sauce recipe?

This recipe is quick and easy, taking just 10 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this homemade barbecue sauce with grilled chicken or ribs for a classic barbecue experience. It's equally delightful as a condiment for burgers or a dipping sauce for chicken nuggets. Make this sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to two weeks, allowing you to enjoy its rich, tangy flavours whenever you need a quick barbecue fix.