Tangy BBQ Sauce

This tangy BBQ sauce is a perfect blend of Kansas City and Memphis styles, offering a balance of sweet, smoky, and tart flavors. Made in just 15 minutes with pantry staples like ketchup, brown sugar, and cider vinegar, it’s a healthier, tastier alternative to store-bought sauces.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to make in under 20 minutes
• Uses simple pantry ingredients
• Healthier than store-bought with less sugar and no high fructose corn syrup
• Versatile and customizable to suit your taste
• Naturally vegan with a few easy swaps
• Perfect for ribs, pulled pork, chicken, and even tofu
• Stores well for up to a month
• Great balance of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors
• No preservatives or artificial ingredients
• Rich, deep flavor that improves with time

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 ½ cups ketchup (390g), preferably organic or natural
• 5 tablespoons packed light brown sugar (65g)
• 1 tablespoon molasses
• 6 ounces (177ml) pineapple juice, no sugar added
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce or Pickapepper sauce
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon plus ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 teaspoons mustard powder (e.g., Coleman’s)
• 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ⅛ teaspoon ground turmeric
• ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon Aleppo pepper or cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Directions

1. Whisk all ingredients together in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat.
2. Continue whisking as you bring the sauce to a simmer. This takes a few minutes.
3. Once it bubbles, cover with a lid and reduce the heat to the lowest setting. Let it simmer covered for 8 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and transfer the sauce to jars. Let cool.
5. Store in the refrigerator. The flavor deepens as it rests, improving over time.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Makes approximately 3 cups
• Serving Size: 2 tablespoons

Variations

• Vegan Version: Use Pickapepper sauce and ensure your ketchup, sugar, and molasses are vegan-certified.
• Extra Smoky: Add a few drops of liquid smoke.
• Spicy Kick: Increase cayenne or Aleppo pepper to taste.
• Fruit Twist: Try orange juice instead of pineapple for a different sweetness.
• Mustard Tang: Use Dijon mustard in place of dry mustard for a stronger tang.

Storage/Reheating

• Store in airtight jars or containers in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.
• Shake or stir before each use, as ingredients may settle.
• Can be gently reheated on the stove or microwave if using as a warm sauce.

FAQs

How long does homemade BBQ sauce last?

It lasts up to 1 month in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.

Can I freeze BBQ sauce?

Yes, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge and stir well before use.

Is this BBQ sauce vegan?

It can be made vegan by using Pickapepper sauce and checking that your sugar, molasses, and ketchup are vegan-certified.

What does pineapple juice add to the sauce?

It adds a sweet-tart flavor that balances the smokiness and spice beautifully.

Can I make it spicier?

Yes, add more Aleppo or cayenne pepper, or mix in a dash of hot sauce.

Can I substitute prepared mustard for mustard powder?

Yes. Use 1 tablespoon of prepared mustard like Dijon or yellow mustard instead.

Is this safe for canning?

This recipe is not tested for canning, so it’s best to refrigerate or freeze.

What can I use instead of molasses?

Try maple syrup or dark corn syrup, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Can I use fresh garlic and onion instead of powders?

Yes, but cook the sauce longer to soften them and blend the flavors.

Why does the flavor change after refrigerating?

The flavors meld and mellow over time, resulting in a richer, more balanced taste.

Conclusion

This tangy BBQ sauce is a game-changer for your grilling and cooking needs. Quick to make, full of deep, bold flavor, and easy to customize, it’s a must-have in any kitchen. Whether you’re slathering it on ribs or using it as a dipping sauce, this homemade version will have you saying goodbye to store-bought bottles for good.

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