Ingredients:

  • 2 cups tomato ketchup
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/2 cup dark brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tbsp unsulfured molasses
  • 1 tbsp yellow mustard
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

Instructions:

  1. Combine the liquids. Whisk 2 cups tomato ketchup, 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar, 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, and 1/2 cup water in your saucepan. Note: This creates a consistent base before adding solids.
  2. Add the sweeteners. Stir in 1/2 cup dark brown sugar and 2 tbsp unsulfured molasses until the sugar crystals begin to dissolve.
  3. Incorporate the aromatics. Add 1 tbsp yellow mustard, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp ground black pepper, and 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper.
  4. Whisk until smooth. Keep stirring until no spice clumps remain on the surface.
  5. Heat the mixture. Place the pan over medium heat and bring to a gentle bubble.
  6. Reduce to a simmer. Turn the heat to low until the sauce begins to darken slightly. Note: High heat will burn the sugar, making the sauce bitter.
  7. Cook for 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  8. Check the consistency. The sauce is ready when it coats the back of a spoon and leaves a clear path when you run a finger through it.
  9. Cool completely. Let the sauce sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.
  10. Final stir. Give it one last whisk before transferring to a jar to ensure a silky finish.