Introducing our very own gluten-free BBQ sauce recipe – a game-changer for those following a vegan and gluten-free diet. With its irresistible deep brown caramel colour and distinct smoky flavour, this homemade sauce is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Bursting with crave-worthy aromatics and spices that will leave your taste buds satisfied, it’s the perfect accompaniment for summer gatherings and BBQs. Whether you have family members with dietary restrictions or simply want to indulge in a healthier alternative, this gluten-free BBQ sauce will win over hearts and palates alike.
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Why You’ll Love Homemade BBQ Sauce
- Gluten-Free and Vegan: This BBQ sauce recipe is perfect for those with dietary restrictions or preferences. It’s gluten free, making it the best BBQ sauce for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. It is also made with plant-based ingredients, making it suitable for vegans.
- Quick and Easy: With a preparation time of under 10 minutes, this recipe is a time-saver. You can whip up a delicious homemade BBQ sauce in no time, perfect for those busy summer gatherings or last-minute BBQs.
- Balanced Flavor Profile: The combination of tomato ketchup, garlic, vinegar, and a blend of spices like paprika, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper creates a well-rounded and flavorful BBQ sauce. It strikes a perfect balance without being overly sweet or salty.
- Healthier Alternative: Unlike many store-bought barbecue sauces, this homemade BBQ sauce recipe offers a healthier option. It contains lower levels of sugar and salt (and no high fructose corn syrup), allowing you to enjoy the classic BBQ sauce taste while being mindful of your health and nutrition.
- Versatile Usage: This BBQ sauce is not only ideal for grilling and BBQs but can also be used in various dishes. It adds a tangy and smoky kick to burgers, sandwiches, roasted vegetables, and more. It’s a versatile sauce that enhances the flavour of many dishes, adding a delicious twist to your summer meals.
What To Serve Gluten-Free BBQ Sauce With?
There are many different ways to use this Gluten-Free BBQ Sauce to create the most amazing meals.
- Use it as a marinade for meat and poultry. It works wonders for BBQ Pork Fillet and as a marinade for chicken thighs.
- Use it as a glaze: we love BBQ-glazed aubergine or Chicken wings!
- It’s the best sauce for the BBQ season. It goes well with all your favourite foods that cook on the grill, from Chicken Skewers to Lamb Shashlik!
- Use it as a relish for burgers, sandwiches or wraps! Try it in our BBQ Chicken Wraps!
- Spread it on a pizza instead of tomato sauce.
- Perfect dipping sauce for French fries, Polenta Chips or Sweet Potato Wedges. What is more, it’s great with Panko Chicken of Gluten-Free Chicken Tenders.
Is BBQ Sauce Typically Gluten-Free?
Gluten-free barbecue sauces can be found in many grocery stores alongside other condiments, but it’s important to pay close attention to the package labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs. While some brands of BBQ sauce proudly display “gluten-free” on their package label, others may not be as explicit.
When browsing the aisles, it’s crucial to carefully examine the ingredient list for any potential gluten-containing ingredients. Common culprits include wheat, barley, rye, and malt, which can sometimes be present as thickeners, flavourings, or in the form of malt vinegar.
Apart from the obvious, watch out for additives and flavourings that may contain hidden sources of gluten. Ingredients such as hydrolyzed wheat protein, modified food starch, maltodextrin, and malt flavouring can potentially contain gluten.
Additionally, some BBQ sauces may use soy sauce as an ingredient, which often contains wheat. To ensure your BBQ sauce is gluten-free, opt for brands that explicitly state their gluten-free status on the label or consider making your own homemade version using gluten-free ingredients. By taking the time to navigate the world of BBQ sauces, individuals on a gluten-free diet can confidently enjoy their favourite grilled dishes without compromising their health and well-being. Or better yet, make your own!
Ingredients and Substitutes
Simple ingredients that you can get at your local grocery store. You will need:
- tomato ketchup: In this recipe, the ketchup takes centre stage, and there’s no skimping on it! This tomato sauce plays a pivotal role in providing a bold, robust flavour and a luscious texture to this homemade BBQ sauce. It is crucial to check that your ketchup does not contain any gluten. Taste your ketchup before you use it. If it is very vinegary, reduce the amount of vinegar you use in your BBQ sauce.
- olive oil: can be replaced with vegetable, avocado or sunflower oil.
- garlic: use organic garlic, if possible.
- apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar: balsamic vinegar may also be used. Make sure your vinegar is gluten-free (note that malt contains gluten).
- liquid smoke: totally optional, but great for introducing extra smoky flavor to your sauce.
- dark brown sugar: substitute it with agave syrup or honey if you don’t want added sugar (refined sugar, that is). Coconut sugar may also be used.
- ground spices: paprika, smoked paprika (for natural smoke flavor) and cayenne pepper or chili powder (for a little bit of that sweet heat).
Variations and Extras
The beauty of making your own bbq sauce is the ability to add and experiment, right? Add a delicious twist to your homemade gluten-free barbecue sauce with a range of ingredients that bring unique tastes and aromatic profiles.
- Garlic Powder: Enhance the savory flavor by adding a dash of garlic powder to your barbecue sauce.
- Onion Powder: For an extra layer of depth, incorporate onion powder into your sauce. It imparts a subtle and sweet onion flavor.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Add a touch of Worcestershire sauce to intensify the umami and savory aspects of your barbecue sauce. But check that it is gluten-free.
- Whisky: For a bold and distinctive taste, consider adding a splash of Jack Daniel’s whiskey (it’s gluten-free) instead of water.
- Lemon Juice: The tangy acidity adds a refreshing element and balances the richness of the other ingredients.
- Mustard Powder: Introduce a subtle tang and mild heat to your sauce with a pinch of mustard powder.
- Extra Chilli: If you prefer an extra hot barbecue sauce, incorporate more chilli heat – double or even triple the cayenne pepper.
- Experiment with proportions: Feel free to adjust the quantities of these additional flavors to suit your personal taste preferences. Experimentation can lead to exciting and unique variations of your gluten-free barbecue sauce.
Method
In a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat, gently heat the oil.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for approximately 30 seconds, taking care not to let it brown too much.
Incorporate the remaining ingredients and add 2 tablespoons of water. Increase the heat and continue stirring until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
Remove from heat and set aside to cool down. If you have taken the sauce too far, add a little water to loosen it.
Once cool, taste and season with black pepper and sea salt, if necessary.
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To ensure the longevity of your homemade BBQ sauce, it’s essential to store it properly. Once cooled, transfer the sauce to an airtight container, such as a glass jar or plastic container, and refrigerate it. This way, it can stay fresh for about a week in the fridge.
If you have a larger batch or want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing the sauce. It can be frozen in suitable freezer-safe containers for up to three months, allowing you to enjoy the homemade barbecue sauce at your convenience while preserving its flavours.
Other Delicious Sauces
We hope you enjoyed this gluten-free barbecue sauce recipe. If you enjoy making your own sauce once in a while, here are some delicious recipes to try next:
- Chinese BBQ Sauce
- Authentic Japanese Barbecue Sauce (recipe coming soon)
- Cherry Sauce For Duck
- Cranberry Grapefruit Sauce
Homemade Gluten-Free BBQ Sauce
Ingredients
- 100 g tomato ketchup gluten-free
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 garlic clove crushed
- 1½ tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon dark brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or chili powder
- 1 tablespoon liquid smoke optional
Instructions
- Gently heat the oil in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, taking care not to let it brown too much.
- Incorporate the remaining ingredients and add 2 tablespoons of water. Increase the heat and continue stirring until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and set aside to cool down.
- Once cool, taste and season with black pepper and sea salt, if necessary.
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Notes
Nutrition
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