Pitmaster BBQ Sauce

Ingredients

• 2 cups ketchup
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/3 cup dark brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tbsp yellow mustard
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1/2 tsp liquid smoke
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions

1. Combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, and yellow mustard in a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan. Whisk until smooth and well incorporated.
2. Add smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and salt to the saucepan. Whisk thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly throughout the sauce.
3. Pour in the water and liquid smoke, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon.
5. Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more brown sugar for sweetness, vinegar for tang, or cayenne for heat as desired.
6. Transfer to a clean glass jar or airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before using to allow flavors to fully develop.