A versatile, bold sauce that doubles as a marinade for steak or a basting sauce for barbecue, with a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors.
10 min prep
15 min cook
8 servings
45 kcal/serving
Ingredients
1/2 cup ketchup
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Whisk until smooth and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
Reduce heat to low and let simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened slightly.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Remove from heat and let cool completely before using as a marinade or sauce.
For marinade: Place steak in a resealable bag, add 1/2 cup sauce, seal, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. Discard used marinade.
For barbecue sauce: Use as a basting sauce during grilling or as a dipping sauce.
Tips
Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
For a smokier flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke.
This sauce works well with beef, pork, or chicken.