Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (450g) fresh or frozen blackberries
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) water
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil or vegetable oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions:

  1. Combine blackberries and water in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until blackberries are softened (about 5 minutes).
  2. While blackberries are softening, heat oil in a separate small saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until softened (about 5 minutes). Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
  3. Add softened blackberry mixture, sautéed onion-garlic mixture, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the saucepan.
  4. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
  5. For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to blend the sauce until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the sauce to a regular blender and blend until smooth. Be careful when blending hot liquids!
  6. Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to a jar or airtight container. Store in the refrigerator.