Tomato-Free BBQ Sauce
Tomato-Free BBQ Sauce is a tangy, flavorful alternative to traditional BBQ sauces. Made with ingredients like vinegar, mustard, sugar, and various spices, it offers a unique taste without tomatoes. This sauce provides a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors, making it ideal for grilled meats, vegetables, or as a marinade.
Equipment
- A medium saucepan
- A wooden spoon or whisk
- A measuring cup and spoons
- A small mixing bowl for measuring spices
- A storage jar or bottle for storing the sauce
Ingredients
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar for tanginess
- 1/2 cup maple syrup for natural sweetness
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard for a mild kick
- 1/4 cup molasses adds depth and richness
- 1/4 cup olive oil for smoothness
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce for umami flavor
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika to get that smoky BBQ taste
- 1 tablespoon ground mustard for extra tang
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for a little heat
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, molasses, olive oil, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to combine these ingredients until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
- Next, in a small mixing bowl, combine the smoked paprika, ground mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir to combine.
- Add the dry spice mixture to the saucepan with the wet ingredients. Stir everything together to ensure the spices are well distributed in the sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings to your liking. You can add more maple syrup if you like a sweeter sauce, more cayenne if you like heat, or a bit more vinegar for extra tang. Remember, BBQ sauce should have a balance of tangy, sweet, and smoky flavors.
- Once the sauce has thickened slightly and reached your desired flavor, remove it from the heat. Allow the sauce to cool for a few minutes before transferring it into a jar or bottle for storage. Let the flavors meld for at least 30 minutes before using for the best results.
- Now your homemade tomato-free BBQ sauce is ready! Brush it on your grilled chicken, ribs, or veggies, or use it as a dip for your fries and sandwiches.
Notes
This BBQ sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, making it a great condiment to keep on hand for your next grilling session.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer it a bit longer until it reaches your desired consistency. Additionally, if you’re making this BBQ sauce for someone with a specific dietary need, you can easily modify it.
For a sugar-free version, substitute the maple syrup and molasses with your preferred sugar alternative. For a more savory twist, you can experiment by adding a bit of liquid smoke or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a deeper flavor profile.