Top 15 Best BBQ Sauce Substitutions {Plus an Easy Homemade Recipe}

Are you out of BBQ sauce but still craving that tangy and sweet flavor for your grilled meats? Fear not, as there are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to BBQ sauce substitutions. In this article, we’ll introduce you to the top 10 best BBQ sauce substitutes and provide you with an easy homemade recipe that you can try.

Let’s start with the top 15 best BBQ sauce substitutions:

1. Hoisin Sauce: This thick, dark sauce is commonly used in Asian cuisine and can add a sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavor to your grilled meats. It’s made from soybeans, garlic, vinegar, and a variety of seasonings. Compared to BBQ sauce, it has a more pronounced sweetness and a unique umami depth from the soybeans.
2. Teriyaki Sauce: Another Asian-inspired sauce, teriyaki sauce brings a sweet and tangy flavor to your grilled meats. It’s made from soy sauce, sugar, sake, and ginger. While it shares the sweetness of BBQ sauce, it lacks the smoky flavor, instead offering a unique ginger kick.
3. Worcestershire Sauce: This classic sauce can add a savory and tangy flavor to your grilled meats. It’s made from vinegar, molasses, anchovies, and a blend of spices. It’s less sweet than BBQ sauce, with a more complex, umami-rich flavor profile due to the anchovies. Great on Burgers
4. Ketchup: This condiment is a common ingredient in many BBQ sauce recipes and can be used as a substitute for BBQ sauce itself. It adds a sweet and tangy flavor to your grilled meats. It’s similar to BBQ sauce but lacks the smoky and spicy elements. Famous on breaded chicken
5. Mustard Sauce: Mustard sauce can provide a tangy and slightly spicy flavor to your grilled meats. It’s made from mustard, vinegar, sugar, and a blend of seasonings. It’s less sweet and more tangy than BBQ sauce, with a distinct mustard flavor.
6. Apple Cider Vinegar: This tangy and slightly sweet vinegar is a common ingredient in many BBQ sauce recipes and can be used as a substitute for BBQ sauce itself. It’s much more acidic than BBQ sauce, with a sharper tanginess.
7. Brown Sugar: This sweet ingredient can be used to add a touch of sweetness to your grilled meats. It’s especially good when combined with other ingredients such as soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce. It’s sweeter and lacks the tangy, smoky flavors of BBQ sauce.
8. Lemon Juice: This acidic ingredient can add a tangy and slightly sour flavor to your grilled meats. It’s especially good when combined with other ingredients such as garlic and black pepper. It’s more sour and less sweet than BBQ sauce, with a fresh citrus note.
9. Maple Syrup: This sweet ingredient can be used to add a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor to your grilled meats. It’s especially good when combined with other ingredients such as soy sauce or Dijon mustard. It’s sweeter and less tangy than BBQ sauce, with a unique, rich flavor from the maple.
10. Hot Sauce: This spicy condiment can add a kick to your grilled meats. It’s especially good when combined with other ingredients such as ketchup or honey. It’s spicier and less sweet than BBQ sauce, with a heat level that depends on the specific hot sauce used.
11. Soy Sauce: This Asian condiment can add a salty and umami flavor to your grilled meats. It’s especially good when combined with other ingredients such as brown sugar or garlic. It’s saltier and less sweet than BBQ sauce, with a strong umami flavor.
12. Honey: Honey can provide a sweet and slightly floral flavor to your grilled meats. It’s a great ingredient to balance out the heat from spicy components. It’s sweeter and less tangy than BBQ sauce, with a subtle floral note that BBQ sauce lacks.
13. Molasses: This thick,dark syrup can add a sweet and slightly smoky flavor to your grilled meats. It’s a common ingredient in many BBQ sauce recipes. It’s similar to BBQ sauce in its sweetness and smokiness, but it lacks the tangy and spicy elements.
14. Chili Sauce: This spicy condiment can add a kick to your grilled meats. It’s especially good when combined with other ingredients such as soy sauce or honey. It’s spicier and less sweet than BBQ sauce, with a heat level that depends on the specific chili sauce used.
15. Balsamic Vinegar: This tangy and slightly sweet vinegar can add a unique flavor to your grilled meats. It’s especially good when combined with other ingredients such as olive oil or garlic. It’s more tangy and less sweet than BBQ sauce, with a unique, slightly fruity flavor.

Substitute	Usage	Taste Profile
Hoisin Sauce	Asian cuisine, grilled meats	Sweet, savory, slightly spicy
Teriyaki Sauce	Grilled meats	Sweet, tangy
Worcestershire Sauce	Grilled meats	Savory, tangy
Ketchup	Grilled meats	Sweet, tangy
Mustard Sauce	Grilled meats	Tangy, slightly spicy
Apple Cider Vinegar	Grilled meats, BBQ sauce recipes	Tangy, slightly sweet
Brown Sugar	Grilled meats	Sweet
Lemon Juice	Grilled meats	Tangy, slightly sour
Maple Syrup	Grilled meats	Sweet, depth of flavor
Hot Sauce	Grilled meats	Spicy
Soy Sauce	Grilled meats	Salty, umami
Honey	Grilled meats	Sweet, slightly floral
Molasses	Grilled meats, BBQ sauce recipes	Sweet, slightly smoky
Chili Sauce	Grilled meats	Spicy
Balsamic Vinegar	Grilled meats	Tangy, slightly sweet

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Now that we’ve introduced you to the top 15 best BBQ sauce substitutions let’s move on to the easy homemade recipe that you can try.

This recipe calls for common items found in most kitchens and the process is quick and easy.

Easy Homemade BBQ Sauce Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1.5 cups of ketchup
• 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup of brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons of honey
• 1 teaspoon of hot sauce (optional)
• 1 teaspoon of mustard or dry mustard (optional)
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder or minced onion (optional)
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder or minced garlic (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Stir until all the sugar has dissolved and the sauce begins to thicken, about 10-15 minutes.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
4. Let the sauce cool before using, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Please note that this is a basic recipe and you can adjust the ingredients according to your taste. For example, if you prefer a sweeter sauce, you can add more honey or brown sugar. If you like it tangier, add more vinegar.

Teriyaki Sauce

Teriyaki sauce is an outstanding substitute for traditional barbecue sauce. This Japanese condiment is an incredible addition to your pantry because it can be used in various dishes, including grilled and stir-fried meats or vegetables.

Teriyaki sauce’s sweet and salty combination creates an aromatic flavor that is perfect for marinating meats or brushing onto vegetables during grilling. It’s an excellent alternative to traditional barbecue sauce, and it doesn’t overshadow the natural flavor of the food. The sweetness of the sauce caramelizes on the food’s surface during the grilling process, resulting in a crispy and delicious crust.

In conclusion, Teriyaki sauce is a versatile, Japanese condiment that you should consider adding to your pantry. With just a few key ingredients, you can create a marinade or glaze that will elevate your meat or vegetable dishes.

Plum Sauce

If you’re looking for a flavorful BBQ sauce substitute that’s a little bit different from the usual offerings, Plum Sauce might just be what you need. Originating from Chinese cuisine, this sauce is known for its sweet and tangy taste and fruity notes that are sure to make any dish stand out.

What’s great about Plum Sauce is that its texture is quite similar to regular BBQ sauce, making it an easy substitute to use. Simply use a 1:1 ratio, and you’re good to go.

One of the best ways to use Plum Sauce as a substitute for BBQ sauce is as a glaze for ribs or grilled chicken. The sweet and tangy flavors will complement the smoky and savory tastes of the meat, resulting in a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Alternatively, you could also use Plum Sauce as a dipping sauce for spring rolls or dumplings – its unique taste is sure to impress your guests.

Overall, if you’re looking to switch things up with your BBQ sauce game, give Plum Sauce a try. Its origins in Chinese cuisine and sweet, tangy flavors make it a standout alternative to traditional BBQ sauce.

Seafood Sauce

Looking for an alternative to traditional BBQ sauce that boasts tangy flavors and complements surf and turf dishes? Consider using Seafood Sauce. This sauce contains black beans, vinegar, chili, and five-spice powder, and its unique combination of flavors is sure to set your taste buds alight.

Once prepared, Seafood Sauce can be used as a marinade or finishing glaze for freshly smoked ribs. Its tangy taste will nicely balance the savory flavors of the ribs, resulting in a dish that’s sure to impress your guests.

So, next time you’re looking for an alternative to BBQ sauce for your surf and turf dishes or simply wish to mix things up a bit, consider giving Seafood Sauce a try. Its unique flavor profile and versatility make it an excellent addition to any recipe that calls for a tangy finishing glaze.

Liquid Smoke

Liquid smoke is an excellent substitute for traditional BBQ sauce. It’s also a great way to add smokiness to a dish, especially when you can’t use a smoker. Liquid smoke is basically the process of capturing smoke from wood and turning it into a liquid form. There are many varieties available, such as mesquite, applewood, and hickory, among others.

To use liquid smoke as a substitute for traditional BBQ sauce, simply combine it with other ingredients such as spice rubs or other sauces. You can also add smoked paprika to replicate the iconic smoky flavor of traditional BBQ sauce. The combination of liquid smoke and smoked paprika is a great way to add depth and complexity to your sauces.

When making a sauce substitute using liquid smoke, it’s essential to balance the smoky flavor with other ingredients to prevent the sauce from becoming overwhelming. Using a neutral base like tomato sauce or ketchup can help balance the smokiness while still giving it that signature BBQ flavor.

In conclusion, liquid smoke is an excellent ingredient to use when making a sauce substitute or adding smokiness to a dish. With varieties like mesquite, applewood, and hickory, you can choose the one that best suits your taste. Combining it with other ingredients like spice rubs, sauces, and smoked paprika can create a BBQ sauce substitute that replicates the iconic smoky flavor of traditional BBQ sauce.

Dry Spice Rub

For those looking for an alternative to traditional BBQ sauce, dry spice rubs can be a great option for adding flavor to meat. A dry spice rub is a mixture of ground spices and seasonings that is applied to the meat before cooking.

The basic recipe for a dry spice rub typically includes black pepper, brown sugar, dry mustard, and onion powder, but the combination of spices used can vary depending on personal preference and desired flavors. For example, some may prefer a spicier rub with the addition of chili powder and red pepper flakes.

Typical ingredients used in a dry spice rub include paprika, salt, pepper, and brown sugar. However, many other options can be used as well, such as garlic powder, onion powder, and various herbs and spices. The key is to find a combination that complements the meat and satisfies your taste buds.

A dry spice rub can bring a similar depth of flavor to the meat as traditional BBQ sauce while still having that memorable smokiness associated with sauce. It’s a great option for those who may be watching their sugar intake or looking for a more savory flavor.

Overall, using a dry spice rub can be a fantastic alternative to BBQ sauce for those looking to change up their grilling game. Experiment with different combinations of spices and seasonings until you find the perfect combination for your meat.

Sugar-free BBQ Sauce

Sugar-Free BBQ Sauce: A Delicious Option for Low-Carb and Keto Dieters

When following a low-carb or keto diet, finding savory condiments that are low in carbs and sugar can be a challenge, especially when it comes to barbecue sauce. Traditional barbecue sauce is usually loaded with sugar, making it off-limits for those on a low-carb or keto diet. However, with the increasing popularity of these diets, many brands are now offering sugar-free BBQ sauce options.

Popular brands such as G Hughes and Sweet Baby Rays have been putting out a wide variety of sugar-free barbecue sauces. These sugar-free options are not only low in carbs, but they are also delicious and can be enjoyed guilt-free.

The key ingredients in sugar-free barbecue sauce include tomatoes and vinegar, which give the sauce its distinctive tanginess. The sweetness in traditional barbecue sauce is usually added with brown sugar or molasses, but in sugar-free options, artificial sweeteners like sucralose and stevia are used in its place.

If you’re watching your carb intake, you’ll be pleased to know that sugar-free barbecue sauce is very low in carbs. For example, G Hughes Original Sugar-Free BBQ Sauce contains only 2 grams of net carbs per 2 tablespoon serving, while Sweet Baby Ray’s No Sugar Added BBQ Sauce has 1 gram of net carbs per serving.

In conclusion, sugar-free barbecue sauce is a great option for those on a low-carb or keto diet who still want to savor the flavor of BBQ. Popular brands on the market offer delicious options, so you can enjoy your barbecue favorites without compromising your diet. So fire up the grill and enjoy some delicious and guilt-free barbecue!

Worcestershire Sauce

Worcestershire sauce is a versatile and flavorful condiment that can be used as a barbecue sauce substitute. Its unique flavor comes from a blend of ingredients such as vinegar, molasses, tamarind, onion, and garlic. Worcestershire sauce adds a tangy, umami flavor to any dish and can be used in a variety of recipes.

To make a Worcestershire sauce-based barbecue sauce, start by combining Worcestershire sauce with a few dashes of black pepper and minced garlic and onion. Mix the ingredients well and let the sauce sit in an airtight container for a few hours to let the flavors meld together.

When using Worcestershire sauce as a marinade, simply coat your meats with the sauce and let it sit for a few hours in the refrigerator. Alternatively, it can be used as a basting sauce during grilling or roasting. The sauce can also be used as a dipping sauce for grilled meats or vegetables.

With its unique flavor and versatile usage, Worcestershire sauce is a great barbecue substitute option. It provides a tangy, slightly smoky taste to any dish and can be used in a variety of ways to enhance the flavor of grilled or roasted meats. So, next time you’re looking for a tasty and flavorful barbecue sauce substitute, try Worcestershire sauce!

Ketchup

Ketchup can be used as a substitute for barbecue sauce in a pinch, but it won’t provide the same smokiness and depth of flavor as traditional barbecue sauce. However, ketchup is often used as an ingredient in barbecue sauces to provide a sweet base.

To use ketchup as a base for making your own barbecue sauce, start by adding vinegar to cut the sweetness of the ketchup and to add some tanginess. Sugar can also be added to balance out the acidity of the vinegar and provide sweetness. From there, add in spices such as chili powder, garlic powder, and paprika to create a complex flavor profile.

By using ketchup as a base and adding these additional ingredients, you can create a barbecue sauce that has the sweet and tangy flavor profile of traditional barbecue sauce, without the need for obscure ingredients or hard-to-find sauces.

Overall, while ketchup can be a good starting point for making barbecue sauce, it’s important to add the right ingredients to achieve the desired flavor. Simply using ketchup as a standalone substitute won’t result in the same depth of flavor as traditional barbecue sauce.

Chimichurri

If you are tired of traditional BBQ sauce and looking for a unique and flavorful alternative, look no further than chimichurri sauce. This zesty herb sauce hails from Argentina and has become increasingly popular for its bold and fresh flavors in recent years.

Chimichurri is known for its herbaceous flavor profile and zesty kick. It blends parsley, cilantro, garlic, red pepper flakes, and red wine vinegar to create a sauce that is both tangy and savory. It is traditionally served with Argentinian steak, but also makes a great dipping sauce for BBQ pork ribs.

To make homemade chimichurri, you will need fresh flat-leaf parsley, fresh garlic, oregano, shallot, oil, and salt. Using fresh ingredients and making it from scratch is important to get the best results.

Start by mincing the garlic and shallot, and roughly chopping the parsley and cilantro. Whisk together the red wine vinegar, oil, salt, and red pepper flakes in a bowl. Add in the garlic, shallot, and herbs, and stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Chimichurri is a delicious alternative to traditional BBQ sauce that can add a unique and flavorful twist to your next BBQ. Give it a try and impress your guests with this homemade sauce that pairs perfectly with grilled meats.

Keto Sugar-Free BBQ Sauce

Looking for a healthier alternative to traditional barbecue sauce? Look no further than a Keto Sugar-Free BBQ sauce. Reducing your sugar intake can have numerous health benefits, from weight loss to better blood sugar control. By making your own BBQ sauce without added sugar, you can enjoy the delicious sweet and spicy flavor profile without any negative effects.

To make your own Keto Sugar-Free BBQ sauce, you will need a combination of ingredients that offer the perfect balance of flavor. The main ingredients include tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke, and a sugar substitute such as Stevia or erythritol.

Using tomato paste instead of ketchup, you can keep the sugar content low and still achieve the rich, tomato-based flavor essential in any BBQ sauce. Liquid smoke adds a smoky flavor to the sauce without adding any actual smoke, making it a convenient and easy alternative. Apple cider vinegar and Worcestershire sauce provide the tangy and savory notes that balance out the sauce’s sweetness.

In conclusion, making your own Keto Sugar-Free BBQ sauce is a simple and easy way to enjoy the delicious flavors of traditional BBQ sauce without the added sugar. By using a few key ingredients and letting the sauce simmer and thicken, you can create a sauce perfect for dipping, basting, or slathering on all of your favorite BBQ dishes.

Hoisin

Looking for a barbecue sauce substitute that offers a unique flavor profile? Consider using Hoisin sauce! This popular condiment is commonly used in Asian cuisine and provides a sweet and tangy taste that can perfectly complement meats like chicken and pork.

Hoisin sauce is made with a combination of ingredients including garlic, vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, and various spices. These ingredients come together to create a balanced flavor profile that leans towards sweet and savory notes. The sauce is known for its thick texture and rich, dark color.

One way to use Hoisin sauce as a barbecue sauce substitute is as a marinade or glaze. Simply marinade your meat in the sauce for a few hours before cooking to infuse it with its distinctive flavor. Alternatively, brush the sauce onto your meat while cooking to create a delicious glaze. You can also mix Hoisin sauce with other ingredients such as soy sauce and ginger for a more complex flavor.

When it comes to pairings, Hoisin sauce works particularly well with chicken and pork, but can also be used with beef, seafood, and vegetables. Some popular dishes that use Hoisin sauce as a key flavor component include Chinese barbecued pork, crispy duck pancakes, and lettuce wraps.

If you’re looking to switch things up and try something different from the traditional barbecue sauce, give Hoisin sauce a try. Its unique flavor profile and use in Asian cuisine can be a fun and tasty way to mix things up at your next barbecue or dinner party.

Mustard Sauce

Mustard sauce is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of dishes. Its tangy and slightly spicy flavor can be a great substitute for traditional BBQ sauces, especially for those who prefer a slightly lighter and less sweet flavor. When it comes to making your own homemade sauce, dijon mustard is a popular choice due to its vibrant color and bold taste.

Mustard sauce pairs especially well with pork and chicken dishes, such as roasted pork tenderloin, grilled chicken wings, or pulled pork sandwiches. Its versatility, however, means that it can also be used for dressings, dips, and marinades. One of the great benefits of using mustard sauce as a substitute is that it does not overpower the natural flavor of the ingredients that it is paired with, allowing the nutritional integrity of the dish to remain intact.

If you’re looking for a new twist on a classic BBQ sauce, try making a golden BBQ sauce using dijon mustard as the base. Not only will this sauce provide a new level of flavor, but it will also add a vibrant and unique color to your dishes. So the next time you’re looking for an alternative to traditional BBQ sauce, give Mustard sauce a try.

Peanut Sauce

Peanut sauce may not be the most typical substitute for BBQ sauce, but its unique flavor profile makes it an excellent choice for those looking for something different. And despite not being a common ingredient for ribs, it pairs surprisingly well with them, adding a sweet and nutty flavor to this classic dish.

Try this peanut sauce recipe today and give your ribs a unique twist!

FAQ

1. How do you change the taste of BBQ sauce? You can change the taste of BBQ sauce by adjusting the quantities of the ingredients or adding new ones. If you want it sweeter, add more honey or brown sugar. For a tangier sauce, increase the amount of vinegar. If you prefer a smoky flavor, consider adding liquid smoke. For a spicy kick, add hot sauce or chili powder. Remember, the key is to taste as you go and adjust the flavors to your liking.
2. Is BBQ sauce similar to ketchup? BBQ sauce and ketchup are similar in that they both often contain tomatoes, vinegar, and sugar. However, BBQ sauce usually has a more complex flavor profile with additional ingredients such as Worcestershire sauce, mustard, liquid smoke, onion, garlic, and various spices. It’s also typically smokier and tangier than ketchup.
3. Are BBQ sauce and brown sauce the same thing? No, BBQ sauce and brown sauce are not the same thing. While both are condiments, they have different ingredients and flavor profiles. BBQ sauce is typically made with tomatoes, vinegar, sugar, and a variety of spices, and has a sweet, tangy, and smoky flavor. On the other hand, brown sauce, such as the British HP Sauce, is made from malt vinegar, tomatoes, dates, tamarind, and spices, and has a tangy, slightly sweet, and less smoky flavor.
4. Is BBQ sauce red or brown? The color of BBQ sauce can vary depending on the specific ingredients used, but it’s typically somewhere between red and brown. The tomatoes or ketchup used in the sauce give it a red color, while ingredients like Worcestershire sauce, molasses, or brown sugar can darken the sauce to a brown color. The exact shade can also depend on how long the sauce is cooked and the proportions of the ingredients.

Can You Buy Bulk Bbq Sauce an Freeze It

Yes, you can buy BBQ sauce in bulk and freeze it. BBQ sauce freezes well and can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months. Here are some steps to do it:

Portioning: If you’ve bought a large quantity, it’s a good idea to portion the sauce into smaller, usable quantities before freezing. This way, you can thaw only what you need at a time.

Packaging: Pour the BBQ sauce into freezer-safe containers or bags. If using bags, lay them flat in the freezer until the sauce is frozen, which will make them easier to stack or store.

Sealing: Make sure the containers or bags are sealed tightly to prevent freezer burn. If using containers, leave some headspace to allow for expansion as the sauce freezes.

Labeling: Don’t forget to label each container or bag with the date. This will help you keep track of how long the sauce has been frozen.

Thawing: When you’re ready to use the sauce, move a container or bag from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. After thawing, give it a good stir before using.

Remember, while freezing can extend the shelf life of BBQ sauce, it’s still important to check the sauce for signs of spoilage (like mold or off smells) before using, just to be safe.

Conclusion

In conclusion, creating a homemade BBQ sauce is a simple and customizable process. By combining common pantry ingredients like ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and honey, you can create a delicious sauce that’s perfect for grilling. The beauty of making your own BBQ sauce is the ability to adjust the flavors to your liking, whether you prefer it sweeter, tangier, or spicier. So, don’t hesitate to experiment and tweak the recipe to suit your palate