Are you ready to elevate your grilling game and preserve summer's bounty all year round? Then look no further! This homemade BBQ sauce recipe is perfect for canning, ensuring you have a delicious, tangy condiment on hand whenever the craving strikes. Whether you're a seasoned canner or a kitchen newbie, this easy recipe will guide you through the process, resulting in a pantry staple you'll be proud to share. Get ready to enjoy the best BBQ sauce you've ever tasted, all year long!
Ingredients:
This recipe makes approximately 7 half-pint jars of BBQ sauce.
- 2 large onions, chopped
- 2 red bell peppers, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
Equipment:
- Large stockpot
- Immersion blender or regular blender
- Canning jars (7 half-pint jars recommended)
- Canning lids and rings
- Jar lifter
- Large pot for water bath canning
- Canner rack
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by chopping the onions and bell peppers. Smaller pieces will help them cook more evenly and blend smoothly later.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large stockpot, sauté the chopped onions and peppers over medium heat until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step enhances the flavor of the sauce.
3. Simmer the Sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cayenne pepper (if using), black pepper, and salt to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will become.
4. Blend the Sauce (Optional): For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to blend the mixture directly in the pot. Alternatively, carefully transfer the sauce to a regular blender in batches and blend until smooth. Be cautious when blending hot liquids.
5. Prepare for Canning: While the sauce simmers, sterilize your canning jars, lids, and rings by boiling them in water for 10 minutes. This crucial step ensures the safety of your canned goods.
6. Fill the Jars: Carefully ladle the hot BBQ sauce into the sterilized jars, leaving about ¼ inch of headspace at the top. Wipe the rims of the jars clean, ensuring no sauce remains on the edges. Place the lids and rings on the jars, tightening them fingertip tight.
7. Water Bath Canning: Place the filled jars in a canner with a rack, ensuring they are covered by at least an inch of water. Bring the water to a rolling boil, then process the jars for 15 minutes (adjust processing time based on your altitude – check a reliable canning resource for altitude adjustments).
8. Cool and Check: Carefully remove the jars from the canner using a jar lifter and let them cool completely. You should hear a "pop" sound as the jars seal. Check the seals by pressing down on the center of each lid; if it doesn't flex, the jar is sealed.
9. Store and Enjoy: Store sealed jars in a cool, dark, and dry place. Your homemade BBQ sauce will last for up to a year.
Cooking Tips for Success:
- For a sweeter sauce, increase the amount of brown sugar.
- Add a tablespoon of molasses for a deeper, richer flavor.
- Experiment with different types of peppers to adjust the heat level.
- For a thicker sauce, simmer it for a longer period or reduce the amount of liquid.
- Always follow safe canning practices to prevent foodborne illnesses.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: 150, Fat: 0g, Saturated Fat: 0g, Cholesterol: 0mg, Sodium: 400mg, Carbohydrates: 38g, Sugar: 25g, Protein: 2g. Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
This delicious BBQ sauce makes a fantastic addition to your pantry, perfect for ribs, chicken, pulled pork, or even as a dipping sauce for fries! Enjoy the fruits (and vegetables!) of your labor.