If you are fimilar with my recipes, you know I love to provide easy everyday recipes that use minimal ingredients. Today, I’m excited to introduce you to my homemade BBQ sauce recipe, a fun and flavorful chili lime BBQ sauce that will elevate all your summer grilling recipes that only requires a few pantry staples!
Why You’ll Love This BBQ Sauce Recipe
This homemade BBQ sauce is the perfect blend of tangy, sweet, and spicy flavours. Whether you’re preparing pulled pork, grilled chicken, or a batch of ribs in the slow cooker, this sauce will become your go-to for all things barbecue, trust me.
Inspiration for this Recipe
Just like these new Zoë dog treats, my chili lime BBQ sauce is a burst of flavour! Inspired by the smokey BBQ treats Chloé loves, this sauce brings that irresistible taste to your grilling. These Zoë’s treats come in lamb, pork or beef flavours and are packed with bold, delicious flavours! These treats are rawhide-free and made to be easily digestible. Learn more about them here!
Homemade BBQ Sauce Recipe Ingredients
- 2 cups of ketchup
- 1/2 cup of red wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar for a twist)
- 1/2 cup of light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce
- 1/3 cup of fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon of salt
- 1 tablespoon of chili powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of ground mustard
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
How to Make BBQ Sauce
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the ketchup, red wine vinegar, light brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, lime juice, salt, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, ground mustard, and black pepper.
- Heat and Simmer: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Simmer Over Medium Heat: Let the sauce simmer over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Cool and Store: Remove from heat and let the sauce cool. Transfer it to a mason jar and store in the refrigerator.
Storage Information
Store your homemade BBQ sauce in a mason jar or airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to two weeks, allowing you to enjoy it with multiple meals.
Can You Freeze Barbecue Sauce
Yes, you can freeze barbecue sauce. Store it in an airtight container and place it in a freezer-safe bag and it will keep for up to three months. Thaw the sauce in the refrigerator before using it to ensure the best texture and flavour.
Tips and Tricks
- Apple Cider Vinegar: For a different tang, substitute the red wine vinegar with apple cider vinegar.
- Extra Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to make the sauce spicier.
- Smokey Flavor: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky twist.
What Can You Do With Barbecue Sauce
Here are 4 of my favourite ways to use this BBQ sauce!
Glaze for Grilled Meats: Brush barbecue sauce onto chicken, ribs, or pork chops during the last few minutes of grilling for a delicious, caramelized glaze.
Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Mix barbecue sauce with shredded pork and serve on a toasted bun for a classic pulled pork sandwich. Add coleslaw for extra crunch.
BBQ Pizza: Spread barbecue sauce as a base on pizza dough instead of traditional tomato sauce. Top with cooked chicken, red onions, and mozzarella for a tasty BBQ chicken pizza.
Dipping Sauce: Use barbecue sauce as a dip for chicken tenders, fries, or even vegetable sticks. It’s a flavorful alternative to ketchup or ranch dressing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I freeze this BBQ sauce? A: Yes, you can freeze the sauce in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.
Q: How do I make the sauce less sweet? A: Reduce the amount of brown sugar to suit your taste preference.
Q: Can I use this sauce on vegetarian dishes? A: Absolutely! It’s perfect for grilled vegetables, tofu, or as a marinade for plant-based proteins.
Recipe Recap
This homemade BBQ sauce recipe with a chili lime twist is a versatile and flavorful addition to your cooking repertoire. It’s easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers a gourmet taste that will impress your family and friends. My recipes are tested and perfected to ensure you get the best results every time. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, my goal is to make your cooking experience enjoyable and successful.
Homemade BBQ Sauce with a Chili Lime Twist
Here's how to make the best homemade BBQ sauce with this easy recipe. Perfect for grilling and marinating, this tangy and sweet BBQ sauce is ready in minutes.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of ketchup
- 1/2 cup of red wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar for a twist)
- 1/2 cup of light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce
- 1/3 cup of fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon of salt
- 1 tablespoon of chili powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of ground mustard
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the ketchup, red wine vinegar, light brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, lime juice, salt, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, ground mustard, and black pepper.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Let the sauce simmer over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and let the sauce cool. Transfer it to a mason jar and store in the refrigerator.
Notes
Store your homemade BBQ sauce in a mason jar or airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to two weeks, allowing you to enjoy it with multiple meals.
Christopher is a food and lifestyle expert, recipe developer and the content creator behind May Eighty Five. With over 6 years of creating recipes for your favourite food brands, he also shares tips, tricks and how to’s that he has learnt over the years. Every week, he shares quick, simple and mostly healthy recipes along with some home and entertaining tips. You will find flavorful cocktails, delicious appetizers, tasty mains and some indulgent desserts.
