Smoky, spicy, both sweet and tangy, this keto bbq sauce is extremely easy to make from scratch in just 15 minutes. Tastes so much better than storebought, and it’s the sugar-free barbeque sauce. 2g net carbs per serving!
Making my own low-carb, sugar-free BBQ sauce at home has been an eye-opener for me. Ditching the store-bought versions full of refined sugars, gluten, and preservatives, I ventured into using wholesome ingredients to whip up something healthier. And let me tell you, it’s been a game-changer, especially for my wallet and my taste buds.
This sugar-free BBQ sauce has become my go-to for everything from wings to BBQ pork belly, and it doubles as an amazing dip. I find myself brushing it on generously to everything I cook, seeking out that deep, smoky flavor that I just can’t get enough of.
At first, I wasn’t sure if it would taste that great without all the sugar, but I was wrong. It’s so good! It’s got this rich flavor that makes everything taste better. It’s been a big surprise for me how something so healthy can taste so delicious. Now, I can’t imagine cooking without it. It’s like my secret weapon in the kitchen.
Is BBQ Sauce Keto?
Traditional BBQ sauce is typically high in sugar and carbs, which makes it not keto-friendly. However, there are some brands that make sugar-free and low-carb versions of BBQ sauce that can work for a keto diet.
Most BBQ sauces contain a significant amount of sugar or high fructose corn syrup, which can make them high in carbs. A typical serving of BBQ sauce (2 tablespoons) can contain anywhere from 10 to 20 grams of carbs, with some brands containing even more.
Make sure to check the nutrition label and ingredients list to ensure that the BBQ sauce you choose fits within your daily carb limit.
My homemade BBQ sauce can be easily included in a keto diet without any other problems since it’s made from only naturally low-carb ingredients without added sugar.
Ingredients For Keto Barbeque Sauce
If you crave barbeque sauce and want to learn how to prepare it at home, you’ve come to the right place. This keto barbeque sauce is extremely easy to make, and you will need only a few inexpensive ingredients to make it. Here is everything you need:
- Tomato Paste – You can also use sugar-free, low-carb ketchup.
- Onion – Ensure it’s finely chopped for the best texture.
- Garlic – Fresh garlic is the best for this sauce because it will give an intense taste.
- Olive Oil – This can be substituted with any vegetable oil of your choice.
- Butter – Should be at room temperature to blend seamlessly into the sauce, adding a creamy texture.
- Brown sugar replacement – Use a brown sugar substitute like allulose or monk fruit for a great taste, though any favorite sweetener works.
- Hickory Liquid Smoke: This gives the sauce its signature smoky flavor, mimicking the taste of outdoor grilling.
- Worcestershire sauce – It contributes a unique umami taste that’s tangy, savory, sweet, and salty.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – white vinegar works too.
- Seasonings – Customize with your choice of dried herbs and spices. I recommend smoked paprika for an extra smoky flavor.
- Salt&Pepper – to taste.
How To Make Sugar-Free BBQ Sauce
I love how easy it is to make this keto barbeque sauce. Here is everything you have to do:
- In a small saucepan, heat the oil and add the onion and garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and tender.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the other ingredients. Simmer uncovered for 20 minutes or until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Then add the butter and mix until well combined.
- Let the barbeque sauce cool, then pour it into a glass jar.
This recipe makes 3 cups of low carb barbeque sauce, and the serving size is 2 tbsp.
Tips For Making The Best Low Carb BBQ Sauce
- Once you’ve finished making this keto barbeque sauce, you will have to let it rest for at least a few hours before using it.
- While the BBQ sauce is cooking, make sure to stir it regularly. This will help the flavors blend better and guarantee that the sauce is cooked evenly throughout.
- Feel free to add some red pepper chilly flakes or some chili powder if you want your sauce to be spicier.
Uses For Keto Barbeque Sauce
Wondering what kind of food you can use this barbeque sauce with? Well, you will be happy to see that it can be paired with many dishes. For example, it can be used with grilled dishes such as pork, beef, chicken, and pork ribs, even with grilled vegetables for people who like them, for vegans or vegetarians.
There are tons of delicious ways to use a low carb barbeque sauce. Here are some of my favorites:
- As a topping for Pizza – Replace the tomato sauce.
- Keto Fried Chicken – as a dipping sauce.
- As a Galze: Top your keto meatloaf, Pan Seared Pork Chops, Air Fryer Chicken Thigha with this bbq sauce in the last minutes of cooking,
- As a dip for keto fries or turnip fries
- Use as a marinade for poultry or seafood.
- As a base for other sauces: Use keto BBQ sauce as a base for other sauces, such as keto-friendly hot sauce or a spicy mayo.
Storing Ideas
- Fridge: Put the barbeque sauce in a jar glass and store it in the fridge for two weeks.
- Freezer: This sauce can also be stored in the freezer in a freezer-safe container; thaw it in the fridge before serving it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Is My Sauce Thin?
If you end up with a thinner sauce, you will have to cook it a little longer and continue to whisk until it reaches the required thickness, then remove it from the heat and set it aside to cool.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce is too thick, you should taste it and add a little more liquid. You can choose between water, apple cider vinegar, or tomato paste.
More Easy Sauce Recipes
- Easy Burger Sauce Recipe
- Easy Fry Sauce Recipe
- 10 Minute Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
- The Best Ever Keto Cranberry Sauce
- Easy Keto Caramel Sauce – 3 ingredients
Keto BBQ Sauce
Description
Ingredients
- 2 6 oz cans tomato paste
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter divided
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/3 cup brown sugar replacement
- 1/2 cup onion finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tbsp Hickory Liquid Smoke optional
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp Cayenne pepper or more to taste
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Place a large saucepan over medium heat and melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Cook the onion and garlic for 1-2 minutes or until translucent.
- Add the rest of the ingredients(except the butter) and whisk to combine.
- Bring to a boil, reduce the heat and gently simmer for 20 minutes or until the sauce is slightly thicker. Add the remaining butter and mix until well combined.
- Taste test and add more sweetener or cayenne pepper if you want the sauce to be sweeter or spicier.
- Allow to cool completely, transfer to a glass jar, and store in the fridge for up to 14 days.
How do we calculate the nutrition info?
These nutrition facts listed are determined using nutrition information from the USDA Food Database. Our nutrition facts are accurate, but if you are using different products, please make your calculations. Net carb count is calculated by subtracting both fiber and sugar alcohols because they don’t raise blood sugar.
