Smoky Sweet Tomato BBQ Sauce

This flavorful BBQ sauce combines the rich taste of tomatoes with a smoky essence, a gentle kick of spice, and natural sweetness, perfect for marinating or serving over your favorite dishes.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1/3 cup raw honey
• 1/4 cup blackstrap molasses
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon chipotle powder (or 1-2 chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, adjusted to taste)
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon liquid smoke hickory (adjust to taste)
• 1-2 tablespoons water (to achieve desired consistency)

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the tomato sauce, raw honey, blackstrap molasses, apple cider vinegar, and soy sauce, stirring gently until blended.
2. Add in the smoked paprika, chipotle powder (or chopped chipotle peppers), garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and liquid smoke. Stir well to combine.
3. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will meld the flavors beautifully.
4. If the sauce is too thick for your liking, stir in a tablespoon of water at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Remove from heat and let it cool. Use as a marinade for at least 30 minutes before cooking, or brush it on your dish right before serving.

Flavor Profile:

This BBQ sauce offers a delightful blend of tangy tomato richness, smoky depth from the paprika and liquid smoke, and the perfect touch of gentle spice from the chipotle. The combination of honey and blackstrap molasses adds a natural sweetness with added richness and complexity, making it a fantastic addition to meats, veggies, and even as a dipping sauce.

Enjoy your BBQ sauce, sweetened just the way you like it! If there’s anything else you'd like to adjust or ask, feel free to let me know!