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Homemade Barbecue Sauce Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.4 from 25 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 4 cups
  • Category: Condiment
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

A rich and tangy homemade barbecue sauce bursting with smoky, sweet, and savory flavors. Made from scratch using tomato sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and a blend of spices, this versatile sauce is perfect for grilling, dipping, or marinating your favorite meats and vegetables.


Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 4 cups tomato sauce
  • 1 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper


Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, add 4 cups of tomato sauce, 1 cup of apple cider vinegar, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of honey, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 2 teaspoons smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
  2. Simmer Sauce: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir the sauce occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Allow it to simmer for 20-25 minutes until the sauce thickens to your preferred consistency, developing a deep and balanced flavor.
  3. Sterilize Jars: While the sauce simmers, sterilize your canning jars by placing them in boiling water for 10 minutes. This step eliminates bacteria, ensuring your sauce stays fresh and safe during storage.
  4. Fill Jars: Once the sauce has thickened, carefully pour the hot barbecue sauce into the sterilized jars. Leave about 1/2 inch of headspace from the top of each jar to allow for expansion during processing.
  5. Seal Jars: Wipe the rims of each jar clean with a damp cloth to remove any sauce residue. Place the lids onto the jars securely. Then, process the jars in a boiling water bath for 15 minutes to create a vacuum seal that preserves the sauce.
  6. Cool and Store: Remove the jars from the boiling water bath and let them cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place such as a pantry. Refrigerate after opening.

Notes

  • The sauce thickens more as it cools; adjust simmering time based on your desired thickness.
  • For a spicier sauce, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce during the simmering step.
  • Use sterilized jars and proper water bath canning techniques to ensure long shelf life.
  • This barbecue sauce can be refrigerated for up to 2 weeks once opened.
  • Great as a marinade, dipping sauce, or condiment for grilled meats, vegetables, and sandwiches.