How do you tone down the tomato taste of barbecue sauce?

Add Some Sweetness:: Sugar or honey can help to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes and add a sweet flavor.

Use a Different Type of Vinegar: Instead of using a sharp vinegar, like red wine vinegar, try using a milder vinegar like apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar.

Use Less Tomato Sauce: If you're making your own barbecue sauce, start with a smaller amount of tomato sauce and add more as needed. You can also substitute some of the tomato sauce for a different liquid, like water or chicken broth.

Add Some Smoky Flavors: Smoked paprika or liquid smoke can help to add a smoky flavor that can help to balance out the tomato taste.

Add Some Spices: Spices like garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and chili powder can help to add flavor and depth to your barbecue sauce without overpowering the tomato flavor.

Add Some Herbs: Herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme can add a fresh flavor that can help to balance out the tomato taste.

Use Fruit: Fruit, such as peaches, apricots, or pineapples, can add sweetness and a unique flavor to your barbecue sauce.

Start with a good-quality base: A good-quality base, such as ketchup, will help to give your barbecue sauce a rich, flavorful base.