Maple Syrup BBQ Sauce Recipe
Maple Syrup BBQ Sauce is a sweet and savory recipe that blends maple syrup with tangy ingredients like vinegar and mustard, along with spices such as paprika and garlic powder. The result is a rich, balanced sauce perfect for glazing meats like ribs, chicken, or pork for a delicious finish.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Stirring spoon or whisk
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Knife (for optional fresh ingredients)
- Ladle or spoon for serving
Ingredients
- 2 cups of tomato sauce or one 14.5 oz can
- 1 can 6 oz of tomato paste
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1 cup pure maple syrup for a deeper, richer flavor
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard adds a bit of zing
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce for umami
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or regular paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon regular paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt your preferred variety
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for a spicy kick
Instructions
Combine Ingredients:
- In a medium saucepan, add the tomato sauce, tomato paste, molasses, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to combine.
Season:
- Add the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, ground black pepper, regular paprika, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir again to mix all the seasonings evenly into the sauce.
Simmer:
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Let it cook for about 15–20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken.
Taste and Adjust:
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as necessary. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, you can add more maple syrup or molasses. If you want a more acidic sauce, add a little more apple cider vinegar.
Serve:
- Once the BBQ sauce has reached your desired thickness and flavor, remove it from heat and let it cool slightly before using. The sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.
Notes
❖ Maple Syrup: Using pure maple syrup rather than artificial maple-flavored syrup will give the BBQ sauce a much richer, more authentic flavor.
❖ Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper depending on how spicy you like your BBQ sauce. You can leave it out if you prefer a mild version.