How do you make bbq sause?

Ingredients:

- 1 cup tomato ketchup

- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar

- 1/4 cup brown sugar

- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce

- 1 tablespoon liquid smoke (optional)

- 1 teaspoon paprika

- 1 teaspoon garlic powder

- 1 teaspoon onion powder

- 1 teaspoon mustard powder

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)

Instructions:

1. Combine All Ingredients:

In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the tomato ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke (if using), paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, salt, and black pepper.

2. Simmer:

Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-low heat. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to blend and the sauce to thicken slightly.

3. Taste and Adjust:

Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings to your preference. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more brown sugar. For a tangier sauce, add more apple cider vinegar or a bit of lemon juice. If you like spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

4. Serve or Store:

Once you're happy with the flavor, your homemade barbecue sauce is ready to use. Enjoy it with grilled meats, chicken, ribs, or as a dipping sauce. You can also store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Tips and Variations:

- For a smoky flavor without liquid smoke, add 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika to the sauce.

- You can use honey, maple syrup, or molasses instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness profile.

- Add a handful of chopped fresh herbs, such as basil, cilantro, or parsley, for extra flavor.

- For a thicker sauce, simmer it for a longer time until it reaches your desired consistency.

- Feel free to experiment with different spices and ingredients to create your own unique barbecue sauce recipe.