Each year on May 16 we celebrate National Barbecue Day in the United States. Whether you grill at home or grab some takeout, you will find Americans across the country enjoying an assortment of mouthwatering barbeque (BBQ) flavors and sauces. Here is a healthier way to make homemade barbecue sauce:
Ingredients
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
¾ cup water - divided
1 cup tomato sauce - This is just cooked, pureed tomatoes + salt; often sold in 8 oz. cans.
⅓ cup maple syrup - or 4-5 large medjool dates, pitted & chopped
2 Tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 Tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 Tablespoon molasses
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
¼ teaspoon chili powder
2 teaspoon tamari (GF) or soy sauce
1 teaspoon fine sea salt
pinch of black pepper
⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional
3-4 drops liquid smoke, optional
Instructions
• Preheat a large sauté pan over medium heat. Cook the onion for 7 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Allow some color and caramelization to develop in the pan. You'll deglaze with water and other ingredients in a few minutes.
• Once the onion is golden, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly so the garlic doesn't burn. Deglaze the pan with ¼ cup water.
• Add the remaining ingredients: tomato sauce, ½ cup water, apple cider vinegar, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup (or dates), molasses, smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne, black pepper, salt, tamari, and liquid smoke, if using. Stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3 to 5 minutes or until slightly reduced.
• Remove from heat and let cool 15 minutes. Transfer to a blender, and blend until smooth. Pour into a jar and allow to cool. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

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