Sugar-Free Barbecue Sauce
Ingredients:
- 1 cup tomato sauce (unsweetened)
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (make sure it’s sugar-free)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (for a gluten-free option)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke (optional, for a smoky flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon stevia or monk fruit sweetener (adjust to taste)
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
Combine Ingredients:
- Mix in Saucepan:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the tomato sauce, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce (or tamari), Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), and liquid smoke (if using).
- Stir Well:
- Stir the ingredients well to combine.
Simmer and Sweeten:
- Simmer Sauce:
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low.
- Add Sweetener:
- Add the stevia or monk fruit sweetener to the sauce, adjusting the amount to achieve your desired level of sweetness. Stir well.
- Simmer Further:
- Allow the barbecue sauce to simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps the flavors meld and the sauce to thicken.
Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste and Adjust:
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add salt to taste and more sweetener or spices as desired.
Cool and Store:
- Cool Before Storing:
- Let the Sugar-Free Barbecue Sauce cool to room temperature before transferring it to a jar or bottle.
- Store:
- Store the barbecue sauce in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks.
Notes:
- Consistency: If you prefer a thicker barbecue sauce, you can simmer it for a longer time until it reaches your desired thickness.
- Customization: Feel free to customize the sauce by adding a dash of hot sauce for extra heat or adjusting the level of sweetness to suit your taste.
This Sugar-Free Barbecue Sauce is a flavorful and healthier alternative to traditional barbecue sauces, perfect for those following a sugar-free or low-carb lifestyle. Enjoy it on grilled meats, as a dipping sauce, or as a marinade!
