Make this easy 10 minute homemade BBQ sauce that is rich in smokey and spicy flavors for all your summer's grilling needs.
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Okay, I've gotta be honest.
I don't even have a grill and I rarely barbecue. Which, in case you're wondering is not because I'm vegan; vegans grill, people! But grilling, despite loving the flavors of a smokey and slightly charred tempeh steak, is not a hobby I will likely be picking up anytime soon.
For one thing, I'm a bit intimidated by the grill. Like, I'm not even sure how to turn one on. But, then again, I did just disassemble my garbage disposal to fix a jammed motor, which is impressive considering two years ago I didn't even know how to turn off a water valve. So perhaps I shouldn't give up hope on the grill just yet. That's not the only reason I don't grill, however. I'm fairly minimal when it comes to stuff - seriously, you should see my house - and a grill, to me, is just more stuff. Besides that, I cook for myself and 2 picky toddlers. That means most days I just eat a variation of this tofu bowl for dinner - at best.
But all that to say, just because I don't grill doesn't mean I don't LOVE to smoother things in smokey, rich homemade BBQ sauce and that, my friends, is something you can do all year round!
Among the things I love about this homemade BBQ sauce is that it is completely versatile. As long as it has the key components, you can adjust and taste as you go. And what are those key components?
I’m glad you asked!
THE 5 KEY COMPONENTS OF PERFECT HOMEMADE BBQ SAUCE:
- Creaminess
- Salty
- Acidity
- Sweetness
- Heat
Now, let’s break this down.
Salty – For the salty component, I choose vegan Worcestershire sauce. Worcestershire gives the BBQ sauce that tangy saltiness savoriness.
Acidity – I use apple cider vinegar to give the sauce its acidity, which is crucial in balancing the creamy sweetness of the ketchup.
Sweetener –I use both ketchup (a necessary component of BBQ sauce) and molasses to give this homemade BBQ sauce the necessary sweetness. The amount and type of sweetener you add will depend on your intended use of this sauce.
Heat – The most important part! Heat also counters the richness of the peanut butter and gives the sauce a nice finish. My favorite two heat options for this sauce are Sriracha or cayenne pepper. Sriracha has a distinct flavor (which is awesome!) but if you’re looking for a more neutral heat, go with cayenne pepper.
As long as you have these components, you can mix and match as you please.
HOW TO MAKE HOMEMADE BBQ SAUCE
Once you have your ingredients picked out, all you have to do is sauté some onions and blend them along with your remaining ingredients
and voila…
you’ve got yourself a 5-minute homemade BBQ sauce that is rich, tangy, zesty, and a little spicy and the perfect sauce for burgers, bowls, tacos, pizza, and so much more
WHAT TO DO WITH YOUR VEGAN BBQ SAUCE
BBQ sauce is one of the most versatile condiments and among my favorite! Some of my favorite recipes for this BBQ Sauce are:
- Vegan BBQ "Chicken" Burgers
- BBQ Soy Curls Bowl
- BBQ Jackfruit Tacos with Mango Salsa
HOW TO STORE HOMEMADE BBQ SAUCE
Homemade BBQ sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. To reheat the sauce, gently heat it in a microwave or over the stovetop. BBQ sauce can also be stored in the freezer for up to two months. To thaw, remove from freezer and place in the refrigerator the night before you intend to use it.
I think that’s all you need to know about making the perfect homemade BBQ sauce. So what are you waiting for? Let’s whip some up today!
Easy Homemade BBQ Sauce
Ingredients
- ½ cup white onion, diced
- 2 teaspoon oil
- 2 cups ketchup
- ½ cup molasses
- ¼ cup vegan Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon liquid smoke
- 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- pinch of cayenne
Instructions
- Heat the oil in a small cast-iron skillet. Add the diced onions and sauté until they are translucent and fragrant - about 5 minutes.
- Transfer to a blender or food processor with the remaining ingredients and blend into a smooth sauce.
- Refrigerate until ready to use.
Amal says
Can i sub molasses for date syrup or brown sugar? I just don't like buying ingredients that I don't think I'll use for anything else...
Sarah says
I haven't tried it but if you do, I would go with date sugar and do just a little at a time since it's much sweeter than molasses.
Miruna says
The recipe asks for 2 cups ketchup. You mean normal ketchup?
Sarah says
Yes, regular ketchup.
annie says
This is great. I do have a store bbq sauce that i love, but home made is always better, no doubt. last time i experimented with making my own bbq sauce, it came out so revolting i had to throw it all away. i can't wait to try yours. it looks delicious.
Casey the College Celiac says
I've actually never thought of making my own BBQ sauce before...thanks for the inspiration!