Grilling season—what a wonderful time! I mean, who doesn’t love the smoky aroma wafting through a warm summer evening? But then there’s the constant battle with sauces that sneak in sugar when you least expect it. I stumbled upon this low carb BBQ sauce recipe during one of my sugar-conscious phases, and let me tell you, it’s like finding a hidden gem amidst a field of sugary imposters.
Steps
- Combine tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir the mixture until it is smooth and uniform.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, and ground black pepper to the saucepan. Mix thoroughly to incorporate all the spices evenly.
- Stir in your choice of low-carb sweetener, Worcestershire sauce, and a few drops of liquid smoke for a smoky flavor. Adjust the sweetness and smokiness to taste.
- Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Allow it to cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
- Once thickened, remove the saucepan from heat and let the sauce cool slightly before using. Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Ingredients
- free BBQ sauce recipe:
- 1 cup (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 6 oz tomato paste
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon liquid smoke
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1/3 cup Besti Brown Monk Fruit Allulose Blend (or other preferred keto sweetener)
FAQ
- Can this BBQ sauce be stored for future use, and how long will it last in the refrigerator?
- Yes, this sugar-free BBQ sauce can be stored in the refrigerator. It typically lasts for about two weeks when properly sealed in an airtight container.
- Is it possible to can this BBQ sauce for long-term storage?
- While the recipe hasn’t been tested for canning, you can try pressure canning it for long-term storage. If you do, please let us know how it turns out.
- Does the sauce caramelize when used on grilled meats?
- Yes, the sugar-free BBQ sauce caramelizes well when basted on meats, provided you use the recommended sweetener. It’s great for brushing on meats during grilling.
- What can I use as a substitute for liquid smoke if it’s unavailable in my area?
- If liquid smoke is not available, you can substitute it with smoked paprika to achieve a smoky flavor. This alternative works well in the recipe.
- Are there alternative sweeteners that can be used in this recipe?
- Yes, you can use various sweeteners like liquid monk fruit or a blend of stevia and coconut sugar. Adjust according to your taste preferences, as long as it fits within your dietary needs.
Tips
- Adjust Sweetness and Smoke Levels: Customize the sweetness and smokiness based on your preference. Some users found that adding extra sweetener or liquid smoke enhanced the sauce’s flavor. Consider using brown sweetener for a sweeter taste or adjust the liquid smoke to match your desired intensity.
- Thickening Tip: If you prefer a thicker BBQ sauce, let it simmer longer, around 30-40 minutes. This will help achieve a thicker consistency that is perfect for basting or dipping.
- Storage and Shelf Life: This BBQ sauce can be stored in the refrigerator and will last for about two weeks. If you want to make it in bulk, consider experimenting with canning, although this method has not been widely tested with this recipe.
- Versatile Usage: The sauce works well with various dishes, from pulled pork and chicken to being used as a pizza base. It’s also great for grilling as it caramelizes nicely when cooked with the recommended sweetener.
Equipment
- Liquid Smoke – This is often used to impart a smoky flavor to BBQ sauces and might not be a common household item.
- Monk Fruit Sweetener – Specifically, the Besti Brown Monk Fruit Allulose Blend as mentioned in the reviews. This is a specialized sweetener for keto recipes.
- Immersion Blender – If the recipe requires blending to achieve a smooth consistency, an immersion blender might be necessary.
- Canning Jars – If you plan to make a large batch and store it for an extended period, canning jars might be needed for preservation.
