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Paleo BBQ sauce Recipe

Paleo BBQ Sauce Recipe

Luna
Paleo BBQ Sauce Recipe is a healthy, refined sugar-free alternative made with natural ingredients like tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, honey or dates, garlic, and spices. It’s smoky, tangy, and slightly sweet, perfect for grilling or dipping. This clean-eating sauce avoids processed additives and is ideal for those following Paleo, Whole30, or gluten-free diets.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Condiment / Sauce
Cuisine American (BBQ / Paleo-friendly)
Servings 3 cups
Calories 45 kcal

Equipment

  • Medium mixing bowl or blender
  • Measuring spoons
  • Small saucepan
  • Stirring spoon or spatula
  • Glass jar or airtight container (for storage)

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup tomato sauce or substitute with 1 can of diced tomatoes, blended until smooth
  • 3 oz tomato paste about half of a small can
  • 3 tablespoons raw honey can use maple syrup or 4 Medjool dates soaked and blended as a sweetener
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar balsamic vinegar is an optional substitute
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon coconut aminos a soy sauce alternative for Paleo diets
  • ½ teaspoon liquid smoke adds that authentic BBQ flavor
  • 2 to 4 tablespoons water to adjust thickness as desired

Instructions
 

Blend Base Ingredients

  • In a medium mixing bowl or blender, combine the tomato sauce, tomato paste, and sweetener of choice (honey, maple syrup, or blended dates). Stir or blend until smooth.

Add Vinegar and Seasonings

  • Mix in apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to incorporate.

Add Coconut Aminos and Liquid Smoke

  • Pour in the coconut aminos and liquid smoke. These two ingredients give the sauce depth and that classic smoky BBQ taste.

Adjust Consistency

  • Slowly add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches your preferred thickness. For dipping, keep it thicker. For brushing on meat, a thinner consistency may be better.

Simmer the Sauce

  • Pour the sauce into a small saucepan and heat over medium-low for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps the flavors meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Cool and Store

  • Let the sauce cool completely. Transfer it to a glass jar or airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Notes

◆ Sweetener Tips: If you’re following Whole30, skip the honey/maple syrup and use blended dates instead, as added sugars are not allowed on Whole30.
◆ Smokiness Option: Liquid smoke adds classic BBQ flavor, but ensure it’s Paleo-compliant—some brands contain preservatives. Optional but recommended for a smoky depth.
◆ Consistency Control: Add water 1 tablespoon at a time at the end if your sauce is too thick. If it’s too thin, simmer longer to reduce.

Nutrition Facts Paleo BBQ Sauce Recipe

Nutrition Amounts
Calories 45 kcal
Carbohydrates 10g
Sugars 7g
Protein 0.5g
Fat 0g
Sodium 180mg
Keyword Paleo BBQ Sauce Recipe