Are you craving that smoky, tangy barbecue flavor without the sugar and unhealthy additives? Then you're in the right place! This Whole30 barbecue sauce recipe delivers incredible taste without compromising your healthy lifestyle. It’s perfect for grilling chicken, slathering on ribs, or even as a delicious dipping sauce. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking game with this easy recipe that's packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup tomato paste
- ¼ cup coconut aminos (or tamari for non-Whole30)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Simmer the sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, coconut aminos, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the saucepan. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
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Reduce and thicken: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer and more intense the flavor will become. The sauce will naturally thicken as it simmers.
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Blend (optional): For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to blend the sauce until it reaches your desired consistency. Alternatively, carefully transfer the sauce to a regular blender and blend until smooth. Let cool slightly before using.
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Taste and adjust: Once the sauce has cooled slightly, taste it and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or vinegar depending on your preference.
Cooking Tips for the Best Barbecue Sauce:
- Don't rush the simmering process: The longer the sauce simmers, the more the flavors will meld and deepen.
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the sauce will taste. Freshly ground spices make a big difference!
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you prefer a milder sauce, omit it altogether.
- Store properly: Store leftover barbecue sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It also freezes well.
Variations:
- Sweet and smoky: Add a touch of maple syrup (if following Whole30 guidelines, ensure it's compliant) or a few pitted dates for a slightly sweeter barbecue sauce.
- Spicy: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
- Tangy: Add a tablespoon or two of lemon juice or lime juice for extra tang.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Fat: 5-7g
- Protein: 2-3g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
- Fiber: 2-3g
This delicious and healthy Whole30 barbecue sauce is a game-changer for anyone looking for flavorful, easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. It's perfect for those following a Whole30 lifestyle, but it's also a great option for anyone who wants to enjoy a homemade, delicious dish without sacrificing their health. Enjoy!