Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups Ketchup
  • 1/2 cup Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (packed)
  • 1/4 cup Water
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Yellow Mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Liquid Smoke
  • 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (or to taste)

Instructions:

  1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and water until the sugar begins to dissolve.
  2. Add the onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper to the mixture. Whisk thoroughly to ensure there are no dry clumps remaining.
  3. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and the liquid smoke.
  4. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently to prevent scorching on the bottom.
  5. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and let the sauce bubble gently for 25–30 minutes. The sauce should visibly thicken and coat the back of a spoon.
  6. Remove from heat. Taste carefully and adjust salt, pepper, or cayenne as needed.
  7. Transfer the sauce to a clean, airtight container. Allow it to cool completely before sealing and refrigerating.