Name: Skinny Ms. Barbecue Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon canola or olive oil; 1 medium sweet onion (finely diced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 8 ounces tomato sauce ((can)); 1/4 cup honey; 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar ((use white balsamic vinegar for gluten-free)); 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper ((more or less to taste)); 2 teaspoons chili powder; Kosher or sea salt (to taste)

Are you ready to elevate your grilling game with a healthier twist? Look no further than this delectable Skinny Ms. Barbecue Sauce. Packed with flavor yet light on calories, this sauce is perfect for slathering on everything from grilled chicken to roasted vegetables. With a tantalizing blend of sweet and savory notes, it’s time to ditch those store-bought sauces filled with additives and preservatives. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this homemade beauty in no time!

Top Reasons to Make Skinny Ms. Barbecue Sauce

There are countless reasons to make your own barbecue sauce, but here are the top ones:

Healthier Ingredients: You control what goes into your sauce, ensuring it’s free from artificial preservatives and unnecessary sugars.
Flavor Customization: Tailor the sweetness or spiciness to your liking, creating a sauce that perfectly matches your palate.
Freshness: The vibrant flavors of fresh garlic and onion make this sauce stand out from the rest.
Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just a matter of minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
Versatile: Use it as a marinade, dipping sauce, or glaze, making it a must-have condiment in your kitchen.

Ingredient List

To create your very own Skinny Ms. Barbecue Sauce, gather the following ingredients:

1 tablespoon canola or olive oil
1 sweet onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
8 ounces tomato sauce (can)
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar (use white balsamic vinegar for gluten-free)
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (more or less to taste)
2 teaspoons chili powder
Kosher or sea salt, to taste

Must-Have Equipment

To make the process seamless, here’s a list of equipment you’ll need:

Large skillet: Perfect for sautéing the onions and garlic.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for mixing and stirring the ingredients together.
Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
Storage container: To keep your sauce fresh for later use.

Method: Skinny Ms. Barbecue Sauce

Follow these simple steps to create your Skinny Ms. Barbecue Sauce:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of canola or olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced sweet onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 2: Combine the Sauce Ingredients

Once your onion and garlic are perfectly sautéed, it’s time to add the star ingredients! Stir in the 8 ounces of tomato sauce, 1/4 cup honey, and 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar. The sweetness from the honey and the tanginess from the vinegar will create a harmonious balance in your sauce.

Step 3: Add Flavor Boosters

Next, add 2 teaspoons of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference), and 2 teaspoons of chili powder. Mix everything together until well combined. The cayenne pepper will add a lovely kick, while the chili powder contributes a rich depth of flavor.

Step 4: Season to Taste

Finally, season your sauce with kosher or sea salt to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors intensify and meld together.

Step 5: Cool and Store

Once the sauce has simmered, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Transfer it to a storage container and refrigerate. Your Skinny Ms. Barbecue Sauce is now ready to be enjoyed!

Easy Ingredient Swaps

Here are some easy swaps if you want to customize this recipe further:

Use agave nectar instead of honey for a vegan option.
Replace balsamic vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a different tang.
For a smokier flavor, try adding smoked paprika instead of chili powder.
Use a sugar-free honey alternative for a lower-calorie option.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you encounter any issues while making your Skinny Ms. Barbecue Sauce, here are some helpful tips:

If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or more balsamic vinegar to reach your desired consistency.
For a sweeter sauce, add a little more honey gradually until it meets your preference.
If you find the sauce too spicy, balance it out with a bit more honey or tomato sauce.
Always taste as you go to ensure the flavors are to your liking!

Shelf Life & Storage

To ensure your Skinny Ms. Barbecue Sauce stays fresh, follow these storage tips:

Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
If you wish to extend its shelf life, consider freezing the sauce in ice cube trays for easy portioning.
Thaw frozen cubes in the refrigerator overnight before using.

Helpful Q&A

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it ahead of time can enhance the flavors as they meld together. You can prepare it up to a week in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

Can I use this sauce on anything other than grilled meat?

Yes! This sauce is incredibly versatile. It works wonderfully as a glaze for roasted vegetables, a dipping sauce for appetizers, or even as a topping for burgers and sandwiches.

How can I reduce the sweetness of the sauce?

If you prefer a less sweet sauce, you can reduce the amount of honey or substitute it with a sugar-free sweetener. Additionally, adding more vinegar can help balance the sweetness.

Is this sauce gluten-free?

Yes! If you use white balsamic vinegar, this sauce is gluten-free. Always check labels to ensure your ingredients meet your dietary needs.

If you enjoyed making Skinny Ms. Barbecue Sauce, you might want to try these delicious recipes:

Next Steps

Now that you’ve mastered the art of making Skinny Ms. Barbecue Sauce, it’s time to get creative in the kitchen. Experiment with different dishes, share your newfound sauce with friends and family, and make your next cookout a hit! Don’t forget to keep this recipe handy for all your grilling needs. Happy cooking!