My red chili BBQ sauce recipe grew from long practice and curiosity. I first learned it by watching cooks prepare a bold mix of red chili paste, crushed tomatoes, garlic, onion, cumin, tomato paste, parsley, red wine vinegar, and a rich dip that gives depth.
That moment inspired me to create my own version at home. The specialty of this sauce is the deep heat balanced by gentle sweetness from the tomatoes.
Now I want to show this red chili BBQ sauce recipe step by step so anyone can bring the same rich flavor to their kitchen using the ingredients listed above.
About This Red Chili BBQ Sauce Recipe
This homemade red chili BBQ sauce recipe delivers a warm, bold taste that leans on heat, depth, and a gentle tang. Red chili paste brings a steady kick, while crushed tomatoes and tomato paste build a dense, flavorful body.
Garlic and onion give a strong savory base, cumin adds an earthy touch, and red wine vinegar lifts the blend through a clean edge.
A rich dip or spread melts into the sauce for smooth texture, and fresh parsley brings a bright final note. Every ingredient works toward a full, lively finish.
How To Prepare Red Chili BBQ Sauce Recipe?
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Course: Condiment/Sauce
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American
Yield: 2 cups of BBQ sauce
Kitchen Utensils
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Kitchen scale
- Small bowl
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon red chili paste
- 300 g of your favorite “Something Special” dip or spread
- 4 garlic cloves, ground or finely diced
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 500 g canned crushed tomatoes
- 30 ml red wine vinegar
- 15 g ground cumin
- 30 g fresh parsley, finely diced
- 165 g canned tomato paste

Instructions
1. Start by warming a bit of oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the finely chopped onion and garlic. Let them cook slowly until they’re soft and smell great, which should take around five minutes.
2. When the onions and garlic are ready, add the red chili paste along with the cumin. Give everything a good stir and let the spices cook for a minute or two so they release their full flavor.
3. Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes, the tomato paste, and whatever dip or spread you’re using. Stir until everything comes together into a thick, even mixture.
4. Add a splash of red wine vinegar, then bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat and let it cook for about 25 to 30 minutes, stirring now and then, until it becomes thicker and the flavors develop.
5. When the sauce is done, mix in the chopped parsley. Taste it and make any adjustments you like. Let it cool a bit before you use it or store it.
Notes: This red chili BBQ sauce recipe thickens as it cools; if you prefer a thinner consistency, add a splash of water or broth during simmering. Great for grilling, marinating, or as a dip. Flavor deepens after a few hours, so it’s even better the next day.
Nutrition Facts Red Chili BBQ Sauce Recipe
| Nutrition | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 40 kcal |
| Total Fat | 0 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 8 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
Why You’ll Love This Red Chili BBQ Sauce Recipe
You’ll love this red chili BBQ sauce recipe because it brings steady heat, deep tomato richness, and a smooth, full texture that clings beautifully to grilled or roasted foods.
The blend of red chili paste, garlic, onion, cumin, and vinegar gives a bold character that stands out without feeling harsh.
Red chili BBQ sauce recipe works well as a glaze, dip, or cooking sauce, and it turns even simple dishes into something far more memorable.
Why My Recipe Works
My red chili BBQ sauce recipe works because each ingredient is carefully balanced to create depth, heat, and smoothness.
The combination of crushed tomatoes and tomato paste builds a rich, thick base, while garlic, onion, and cumin add layers of flavor that develop during simmering.
Red wine vinegar cuts through the richness, giving a subtle tang, and the dip or spread rounds out the texture for a creamy finish.
Simmering slowly allows the flavors to meld fully, producing a sauce that clings beautifully to food and enhances every dish it touches.
Usage Suggestions
This red chili BBQ sauce recipe can be used in multiple ways to enhance meals. Brush it over grilled or roasted meats like chicken, pork, or beef for a smoky, spicy glaze.
Stir it into cooked vegetables or roasted potatoes for extra flavor. It works as a dipping sauce for fries, nuggets, or breadsticks. Mixing it into sandwiches, burgers, or wraps adds a rich, tangy layer.
The sauce can also be used as a marinade, allowing proteins to soak up the spice and depth before cooking, creating a bold, flavorful finish.
My Tips For Success
1. Dice the onion, garlic, and parsley, and measure the chili paste, tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, vinegar, cumin, and dip before starting. This makes the cooking process smooth and stress-free.
2. Cook the onion and garlic over medium heat until soft and fragrant without browning to avoid bitterness.
3. Stir in chili paste and cumin for a minute or two to release their full flavor.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and dip gradually, stirring to a smooth consistency.
5. Reduce to low heat and cook 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and flavors meld.
6. Stir in chopped parsley at the end to keep the sauce bright, then taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Storage Instructions
Store the red chili BBQ sauce recipe in a clean, airtight container or glass jar. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 1–2 weeks. For longer storage, portion the sauce into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months.
Thaw frozen sauce in the refrigerator before use and gently reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain its smooth texture and rich flavor.
Always ensure the red chili BBQ sauce recipe is cooled completely before storing and check for freshness before serving.
FAQs About Red Chili BBQ Sauce
Can I make this sauce milder?
Yes, reduce the amount of red chili paste or substitute with a milder chili paste to adjust the heat.
How long does the sauce last?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it lasts 1–2 weeks. Freezing extends shelf life up to 3 months.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used, but simmer longer to achieve the same thick consistency.
Can I skip the dip or spread?
The sauce will still work, but the dip adds richness and smooth texture.
Is this sauce suitable for grilling and roasting?
Absolutely. It works well as a glaze, marinade, or dipping sauce for various meats and vegetables.
Conclusion
This delicious Red Chili BBQ Sauce recipe has become a favorite in my kitchen, and I always enjoy making it, whether for a special meal or serving guests.
Every time I prepare it, the rich flavors and perfect balance of heat and tang bring satisfaction. I love sharing my easy method because it makes creating this flavorful sauce simple for anyone.
Following these steps allows you to achieve consistent results, and I hope you will try it, enjoy it as much as I do, and make it a staple in your cooking.
More Amazing BBQ Sauce Recipes
KC Masterpiece BBQ Sauce Recipe – Kansas City-Style
Guava BBQ Sauce Recipe | Healthy & Delicious
Best Dreamland BBQ Sauce Recipe
Cattleman’s BBQ Sauce Recipe – A Flavor Explosion
Cranberry BBQ Sauce Recipe – Tangy and Sweet

Red Chili BBQ Sauce Recipe
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Kitchen scale
- Small bowl
Ingredients Â
- 1 tablespoon red chili paste
- 300 g of your favorite “Something Special” dip or spread
- 4 garlic cloves ground or finely diced
- 1 medium onion finely diced
- 500 g canned crushed tomatoes
- 30 ml red wine vinegar
- 15 g ground cumin
- 30 g fresh parsley finely diced
- 165 g canned tomato paste
InstructionsÂ
- Start by warming a bit of oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the finely chopped onion and garlic. Let them cook slowly until they’re soft and smell great, which should take around five minutes.
- When the onions and garlic are ready, add the red chili paste along with the cumin. Give everything a good stir and let the spices cook for a minute or two so they release their full flavor.
- Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes, the tomato paste, and whatever dip or spread you’re using. Stir until everything comes together into a thick, even mixture.
- Add a splash of red wine vinegar, then bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat and let it cook for about 25 to 30 minutes, stirring now and then, until it becomes thicker and the flavors develop.
- When the sauce is done, mix in the chopped parsley. Taste it and make any adjustments you like. Let it cool a bit before you use it or store it.