When it comes to healthy eating, flavor is key. A delicious barbecue sauce can bring a whole new level of taste to your favorite grilled dishes without packing on unnecessary calories. This Diet Barbecue Sauce recipe is the perfect solution for those looking to cut down on sugar and still enjoy the bold taste of a classic BBQ sauce. It’s easy to make and can be used as a tasty marinade or dipping sauce for a variety of dishes. Let’s dive into how to whip up this tangy and savory sauce in no time!
***Diet Barbecue Sauce***
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup tomato paste
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
– Liquid stevia or your preferred sweetener, to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Mix the Base:** In a medium saucepan, combine the tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, and water. Stir well to combine.
2. **Add Flavor:** Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper if using. These ingredients will give your barbecue sauce that signature tangy, smoky flavor.
3. **Simmer:** Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce cook gently for about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. **Sweeten to Taste:** Once the sauce has simmered and the flavors have melded together, add your preferred sweetener to taste. Liquid stevia works well for a low-calorie option, but you can use any sweetener you like. Start with a small amount and adjust until you reach your desired level of sweetness.
5. **Blend (Optional):** For a smooth and silky texture, you can use an immersion blender or transfer the sauce to a food processor to blend until smooth. This step is optional, and the sauce will still taste delicious even if you skip it.
6. **Serve or Store:** Your Diet Barbecue Sauce is now ready to use! Brush it onto grilled chicken, ribs, or tofu for a flavorful coating, or serve it as a dipping sauce for sweet potato fries or veggies. Store any leftover sauce in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Enjoy the mouthwatering taste of barbecue without the guilt by whipping up a batch of this Diet Barbecue Sauce. With the perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors, this sauce is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Experiment with different dishes and enjoy the versatility of this healthier condiment that doesn’t skimp on taste. Happy grilling!
