Tomato-Free BBQ Sauce
Tomato-Free BBQ Sauce is a rich and flavorful homemade sauce made without traditional tomato ingredients. Cooked sweet potatoes or pumpkin create a naturally thick texture while molasses, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic, and apple cider vinegar build the classic barbecue flavor.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Potato masher (if using cooked sweet potatoes)
- Whisk
- Airtight glass jar or container for storage
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked and mashed sweet potatoes or smooth pumpkin puree
- 3 tablespoons molasses
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon honey or pure maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon fine salt
Instructions
Step 1
- Add the mashed sweet potatoes or pumpkin puree to a medium saucepan. Pour in the water, molasses, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
Step 2
- Whisk everything together until the ingredients are fully combined and the mixture becomes smooth without any large lumps.
Step 3
- Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently as the sauce begins to warm. Once it reaches a gentle simmer, reduce the heat to low.
Step 4
- Cook for about 12 to 15 minutes, stirring every few minutes. The sauce will gradually thicken while the flavors blend into a rich, smoky barbecue sauce.
Step 5
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the sauce cool slightly. Blend if you prefer an extra silky texture, then transfer to a clean jar. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to use.