Maple Barbecue Sauce (no ketchup!)

This maple sweetened barbecue sauce really stands up against the classic honey barbecue. Requiring just some pantry staples, this recipe is simple and easy. Plus it is made without the added sugar in most commercial ketchups! We prefer to add our sugar in the form of maple.

Here is a great basic recipe that is sweet, tangy, and can be easily tweaked to suit your palate, too.

Ingredients

• 1 - 15 oz can tomato sauce

• 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar

• 1/3 cup pure maple syrup (add up to 1/2 cup depending on taste)

• 1/4 cup tomato paste

• 1/4 cup molasses

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp smoked (or plain) paprika

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp mustard powder

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper

• 1-2 tsp liquid smoke (optional)

Directions

1. In a medium sauce pan, combine all ingredients.

2. Bring to simmer over medium heat for approximately 10 minutes. Use a whisk to stir occasionally, breaking up any clumps in the spices.

3. Allow to cool a bit, then taste and adjust. If it's too tangy, add a bit more maple. If you'd prefer more spice, add more paprika and cayenne.

4. Store in a glass jar in the refrigerator for a few weeks or in the freezer for months.