🧂 Ingredients

• 1 cup ketchup (tomato)
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon Cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon liquid smoke
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• salt to taste (about ½ teaspoon)

📖 Instructions

🍅 Combine the Base Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, combine the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, honey, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard.

🌶️ Add the Spices:
Stir in the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and Cayenne pepper. Adjust the amount of cayenne if you like more or less heat.

♨️ Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Allow it to simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.

✨ Finish with Flavor:
Add olive oil to make the sauce nice and smooth. If you're using liquid smoke, add it at this point to intensify that smoky flavor.

🔁 Taste & Adjust:
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as necessary. If you want more sweetness, add a bit more honey or brown sugar. For more tang, add a splash more vinegar.

🧃 Cool and Store:
Let the sauce cool before using. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.