Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped yellow onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups ketchup
  • 1/2 cup tomato paste
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon liquid smoke (optional)
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add 1/2 cup of finely chopped yellow onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  2. Add 1 1/2 cups of ketchup, 1/2 cup of tomato paste, 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar, 1/4 cup of packed light brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon of dry mustard powder, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (if using), and 1/4 teaspoon of liquid smoke (if using) to the saucepan. Whisk until all ingredients are well combined.
  3. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Reduce heat to low, partially cover, and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired velvety, thick consistency.
  4. Taste the homemade BBQ sauce and adjust seasoning as needed with salt to taste. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly before serving. For storage, transfer the cooled sauce to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 2-3 weeks.