Vegan BBQ Sauce (Easy & Quick)

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This homemade vegan bbq sauce is flavorful, quick, and so easy to make! In addition, this barbecue sauce is gluten free, perfect for dipping fries or making bbq jackfruit sandwiches or bbq chickpeas!

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I love creating sauces because they really give so much flavor to plant based dishes. Store-bought sauces can be expensive and when you make it at home, you can control the ingredients.

You can easily make classic sauces and dips like vegan thousand island, vegan teriyaki sauce, honey mustard, or vegan sriracha mayo. You can also customize and make them sweeter or spicier.

Before we jump into the recipe, let's learn some tips on how to make this delicious sauce.

How to make vegan bbq sauce

Ingredients

Ketchup

I like using organic ketchup but you can use your favorite. You can also use sugar free ketchup if you like.

Blackstrap molasses, maple syrup and tamari

There are many flavors in this bbq sauce so we'll be using molasses, and then for sweetness, we'll add maple syrup. I also like adding tamari but you can sub for soy sauce if you are not gluten free.

Apple cider vinegar, mustard, smoked paprika, onion and garlic powder

For tanginess, apple cider vinegar mustard works great. I am a fan of brown mustard but you can use dijon if you like.

Sriracha and Liquid smoke (optional)

For spicy taste, you can add some Sriracha. I think adding liquid smoke makes a difference because it gives that smoky flavor but you can omit.

How to make it

First, you will need to whisk all the ingredients in a medium bowl.

Next, add the sauce in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Allow it to come to a bubble and then reduce the heat to simmer until it has thickened about 5 to 7 minutes.

You can serve it immediately or cool it down for better texture and also taste.

How to use it

Make vegan baked beans
Spread it on black bean quinoa burger
Dip roasted potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes
Also, make vegan bbq chickpeas or BBQ Jackfruit pizza

Tips & Variations

You can make this vegan bbq sauce spicier by adding cayenne pepper or more Sriracha.
Taste and adjust the sweetness by adding more maple syrup or tanginess by adding more apple cider vinegar.
Always adjust to taste and then add salt if needed!

How to store it

You can store this vegan barbecue sauce in the fridge, covered, for up to 4 to 5 days. The flavor and texture are going to get better with time so keep that in mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

The consistency is not thick enough, what can I do?

You can cook it until you see the consistency getting thicker and then allow it to cool down in the fridge.

The bbq sauce is too thick, how do I fix it?

You can add a tablespoon of water add a time until you reach the consistency you want.

Can I use sugar free ketchup?

Yes, feel free to use it and adjust to taste.

close up picture of vegan bbq sauce in a bowl

This homemade sauce comes together so quickly and it is very easy and versatile. It is also:

Perfect for many dishes
Smoky and sweet
Also so delicious!

More plant based sauces & dips to try

So, did you make this? I’d love for you to leave a comment and rate the recipe. You can also share your photo of the recipe on Pinterest and tag me on Instagram using @avocadocentric or #avocadocentric! xo, Selin