Backyard BBQ Sauce (sugar-free)

Small glass jar of homemade backyard BBQ sauce on a wood plank with peppercorns and a red and white striped towel.

5 from 1 vote

Backyard BBQ Sauce (sugar-free)

Create a sweet and savory backyard BBQ sauce that is so much better (and cheaper!) than store-bought sauces. It’s so easy and made with wholesome ingredients. And, it’s sugar-free and low-carb. Making the best BBQ sauce doesn’t rely on sugar!

Prep Time5

Cook Time10

Total Time15

Course: Sauces, Dressings and Dips

Cuisine: American

Diet: Gluten Free, Vegetarian

Method: Stove

Special Diet: Keto, Low-Carb, Paleo

Servings: servings

Calories: 21kcal

Author: Tracey Hatch-Rizzi

Ingredients

15 ounces tomato sauce 1 can
3 tablespoons molasses blackstrap is best
⅓ cup red wine vinegar can also use apple cider vinegar
⅓ cup powdered stevia or sweetener of choice
3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons mustard powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon onion powder omit for low-FODMAP
¾ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon garlic powder omit for low-FODMAP
½ teaspoon allspice
½ teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes or Aleppo pepper - read more about Aleppo pepper in my Aleppo pepper ingredient spotlight
⅛ teaspoon powdered clove
½ teaspoon powdered coriander optional

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

Combine all ingredients in a medium saucepan
Simmer over medium heat for 5-10 minutes, until slightly thickened, whisking often
Season to taste

Notes

TIP: The flavors will continue to grow and combine the longer it sits. While this can be used right away, it's best to make it a day ahead of time for even better flavor.

How to store

After it has cooled to room temperature, transfer to an air-tight container and refrigerate for up to two weeks. I find mason jars are perfect for storing.

Variations

- Smokehouse BBQ – to create a smoky flavor, add a ⅛-1/4 teaspoon of liquid smoke and add more to taste

- Spicy BBQ sauce – increase the red chili or Aleppo pepper, add some cayenne or a touch of your favorite hot sauce, such as Tapatio

- Make BBQ ranch – add some to your favorite ranch dressing to use as a dip or condiment – yum!

- Port wine – while this option will add a few carbs, it adds an amazingly rich flavor. Add 2 tablespoons to the pot while it’s simmering.

- Bourbon – add a splash of Kentucky bourbon to the pot! It adds so much flavor and the alcohol will cook off as the ingredients simmer.

- Anchovy paste – adding ½ teaspoon provides an extra layer of umami. It’s SO good and does not impart a fishy flavor.

- Tamarind paste – create a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce by adding a teaspoon. This adds a bright, citrus-like flavor.

- Lower the sodium – make it a low sodium BBQ sauce by eliminating or cutting back on the Worcestershire

Nutrition