Tool

• Medium saucepan

Ingredients

• 1½ cups ketchup

• ⅓ cup apple cider vinegar

• ¼ cup packed brown sugar

• 3 tablespoons mustard

• 2 tablespoons molasses

• 4 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

• 1½ teaspoons salt

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• Hot sauce (optional)

Direction

Combine

• In a medium pot, add ketchup, apple cider vinegar, ½ cup water, brown sugar, mustard, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper.

• Whisk until fully combined.

Simmer

• Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat.

• Reduce heat to medium‑low and cook about 15 minutes, whisking frequently, until thickened.

• Remove from heat and let cool completely.

• Add hot sauce if you prefer a spicier BBQ sauce.

Store

• Transfer to a container and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.

Notes

• Flavor improves after resting — make it a day ahead if possible.

• Reheat gently over low heat or in the microwave before using.

• For sweeter sauce: add a bit more brown sugar.

• For smokier sauce: increase smoked paprika or add a splash of liquid smoke.

• For tangier sauce: add extra vinegar or lemon juice.

Nutrition

(per serving)

Calories: 97kcal • Carbs: 25g • Protein: 1g • Fat: 0.3g
Saturated Fat: 0.03g • Sodium: 950mg • Potassium: 264mg
Fiber: 1g • Sugar: 20g
Vitamin A: 362IU • Vitamin C: 2mg • Calcium: 33mg • Iron: 1mg