Ingredients:

  • 1 cup Ketchup (good quality)
  • 1/4 cup Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 1/4 cup packed Brown Sugar (dark or light)
  • 2 Tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce
  • 1 Tablespoon Molasses (Blackstrap or Regular)
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon Dry Mustard Powder
  • Pinch of Cayenne Pepper (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground Black Pepper

Instructions:

  1. Combine the wet ingredients: Add the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and molasses into a medium saucepan.
  2. Whisk in the dry ingredients: Add the brown sugar, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, dry mustard, cayenne (if using), and black pepper. Whisk thoroughly until there are no lumps of brown sugar remaining.
  3. Bring to a gentle simmer: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture begins to bubble gently around the edges, about 2–3 minutes.
  4. Reduce and thicken: Reduce the heat to low. Allow the sauce to maintain a gentle simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the colour deepens.
  5. Taste test and adjust seasoning: Remove from heat. Taste the BBQ sauce and adjust sweetness or tanginess as required.
  6. Cool and store: Transfer the sauce to an airtight container and allow it to cool completely before sealing and refrigerating.