Barbecue Sauce (Microwave)
A smoky, tangy barbecue sauce with a hint of sweetness and spice, perfect for enhancing ribs, chicken, chops, and burgers with rich flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a microwave-safe bowl or container.
- Cover with plastic wrap.
- Cook on High in microwave for 5 minutes, stirring once halfway through.
- Let stand several minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter barbecue sauce, consider adding a bit more brown sugar or even honey. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce. Instant minced onion can be substituted with fresh onion; just sauté it briefly before combining it with other ingredients. For a smokier flavor, increase the liquid smoke slightly, but be cautious as it can be potent.
Serving Suggestions
This barbecue sauce is perfect for grilling meats like chicken, ribs, or burgers, and pairs beautifully with side dishes like Red Onion Potato Salad(Thanks To Ann Tyrell) or coleslaw. You can also use it as a marinade or glaze for roasted vegetables. Drizzle it over your favorite vegan recipes for added flavor, or serve it alongside fries for a delicious dipping sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover barbecue sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, it can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply microwave it for 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. This sauce is versatile and can be used straight from the fridge as a dip or spread.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecue Sauce (Microwave) contains roughly 106 calories, with 1g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1816mg per serving (79% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato sauce?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but you'll need to cook them down to a sauce consistency first. Blanching and pureeing them will help achieve a smoother texture. Keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly from using canned tomato sauce, so adjust the sugar and vinegar to taste.
Is this barbecue sauce gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe can be made gluten-free by ensuring that the Worcestershire sauce used is gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free versions, so always check the label. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
How can I make this sauce vegan?
To make this barbecue sauce vegan, simply ensure that the Worcestershire sauce is vegan, as some brands contain anchovies. Additionally, all other ingredients in the recipe are plant-based, making it a perfect fit for vegan diets. You can also add a bit of maple syrup in place of the brown sugar for a unique twist.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).