Easy Homemade BBQ Sauce Recipe (Vegan)

Published: Feb 11, 2019 · Modified: Jan 20, 2024 by Shane Martin · This post may contain affiliate links.

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This Easy Homemade BBQ Sauce is delicious as it is simple. Sweet, tangy, vegan, and ready in 5 minutes. And, it’s made with super simple ingredients you probably have right now.

Easy Homemade BBQ Sauce Recipe (Vegan) - Shane & Simple (1)

BBQ Sauce should NEVER be bought! Why? Because it’s usually nothing more than a bottle of overpriced red high-fructose corn syrup. That is, unless you’re willing to spend 8-10 bucks on one of the so-called “higher quality” brands. Nope!

This is one of the the easiest,simplest, and most cost-efficient sauces to make athome. It’s also very manly. So, save your money and strengthen your manhood by making this Easy Homemade BBQ Sauce.

Easy Homemade BBQ Sauce Recipe (Vegan) - Shane & Simple (2)

Easy Homemade BBQ Sauce Recipe (Vegan) - Shane & Simple (3)

Table of Contents

BBQ Sauce Ingredients

You’re probably thinking there’s some big secret to making a decent homemade barbecue sauce. Nope. It can actually be made with verysimpleingredients probably sitting in your fridge right now.

Here’s what you’ll need:

Organic Ketchup:Why organic ketchup? Because it doesn’t have corn syrup in the ingredients. You could also use Simply Heinz as well. Just be sure and read the label.
Maple Syrup:It’s completely optional. So, if you like a more robust bbq sauce just leave it out. I tend to like mine a little sweeter.
Vegetarian Worcestershire Sauce:Be sure it’s vegetarian. Many brands of Worcestershire sauce use anchovy. A damn fish! In BBQ sauce! So, once again…make sure it’s vegetarian.
Low-sodium Soy Sauce or Tamari:If you want to make this Easy Homemade BBQ Sauce gluten-free, use Tamari.
White Vinegar:It’s completely optional, but I like the “bite” the vinegar adds.
Smoked Paprika:Feel free to use regular paprika. It’s completely up to you. But, I LOVE smoky things.
Liquid Smoke:Once again, this is optional. As I said, I love smoky things.
Yellow Mustard:Nothing fancy. Just plain, everyday yellow mustard.

Easy Homemade BBQ Sauce Recipe (Vegan) - Shane & Simple (4)

How To Make Easy Homemade BBQ Sauce

Put all your ingredients into a bowl and whisk.
Enjoy!

Told you it was easy.

Homemade BBQ Sauce

Give this Easy Homemade BBQ Sauce a try. I’m sure you’ll like it because it’s..

Easy & simple to make
Sweet
Tangy
Smoky
Completely customizable
Made with everyday ingredients
DELICIOUS!

Use this Easy Homemade BBQ Sauce for beans, jackfruit, soy curls, tofu or on top of baked potatoes. It also makes a delicious dipping sauce. Simply heat in a small sauce pan over medium-low heat after whisking. Perfect!

Looking for more dip and sauce recipes? Try my Oil-Free 8-Minute Marinara Sauce, Game Day Cheese Dip, or Five-Minute Peanut Dipping Sauce. I’m sure you’ll find a use for all of them.

You know the drill. Like always. If you make this recipe, be sure and let me know!Leave a comment,RATE IT, andtaga photo#shaneandsimpleon Instagram.

Easy Homemade BBQ Sauce

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5 Stars4 Stars3 Stars2 Stars1 Star

5 from 17 reviews

Sweet, tangy, and super delicious homemade vegan barbecue sauce. Super easy to make and ready in less than 5 minutes.

Author: Shane Martin
Prep Time: 2 mins.
Total Time: 2 minutes
Yield: 16 servings 1x
Category: Sauces
Cuisine: Vegan
Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup organic ketchup
1–2 tablespoon maple syrup
1 Tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce
1 Tbsp low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
1 Tbsp white vinegar
2 tsp. smoked paprika
1 tsp. liquid smoke
1 tsp. yellow mustard

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Instructions

Whisk all ingredients together in a small or medium-sized bowl. Store in a glass jar with a screw on top. Will keep in the fridge for about a week.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 Tbsp
Calories: 29
Sugar: 5.7 g
Sodium: 231.3 mg
Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 2 g
Fiber: 0 g
Protein: 0.1 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg

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Easy Homemade BBQ Sauce Recipe (Vegan) - Shane & Simple (8)

More Dressings & Sauces

Vegan Sour Cream
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Easy Homemade Ketchup Recipe (5 Minutes)

Reader Interactions

Comments

Let Me Hear From You!

Terri
March 10, 2024 at 2:01 pm
This is the easiest bbq sauce to make. Because I am corn intolerant both my ketchup and mustard have apple cider vinegar I added another tablespoon of maple syrup. It was just a little harsh without it.
Reply
Ron
March 03, 2024 at 4:58 pm
Even if we stop the WFPB diet, I will never buy manufactured BBQ sauce. This was very easy and taste delicious. Making the Seitan ribs for dinner. Cooked them this morning. Going on the grill in a bit to heat them up. Outstanding recipes
Reply
Kathleen
July 23, 2023 at 11:57 am
Your recipes have become my go-to for all things WFPB! This barbecue sauce is the best and the only one my youngest son wants to eat. Thanks so much, Shane!
Reply
Dor
May 29, 2023 at 6:29 pm
This sauce is amazing. I was directed to it from a baked beans recipe that was posted in a WFPB Facebook page. I use the leftover sauce for air fried potatoes. Thanks for posting!
Reply
Jetta
May 04, 2023 at 6:46 am
I have been WFPB for about 10 months now, you recipes really help me to make more fancy foods, I really thank you, I really like this BBQ sauce, used it on tofu, soy curls and jack fruit, yummy and thanks again.
See Also
Star Garland DIY+ 5 Minute Recipe | Baking Soda + Cornstarch - Lily Ardor Salted Chocolate Honeycomb Recipe Australian Fairy Bread Recipe Homemade Eggnog Recipe
Reply
- Shane Martin
  May 04, 2023 at 1:33 pm
  thank you so much and congrats on your new lifestyle and journey!
  Reply
Jetta
April 18, 2023 at 8:28 am
Very Yummy, Thanks
Reply
Jetta
April 18, 2023 at 8:26 am
Trader Joes has the cheapest organic ketchup.
Reply
Ali G
March 13, 2023 at 9:04 am
Delicious! So glad that it is so healthy. Been following you since 2020 and I love all your recipes.
Reply
- Shane Martin
  March 13, 2023 at 12:47 pm
  Thank you so much, Ali!
  Reply
Jan G.
December 18, 2022 at 7:14 pm
Hi Shane, Can I omit the liquid smoke? I have a thing against it.
Reply
- Shane Martin
  December 20, 2022 at 11:31 am
  Sure thing. It’s not necessary for the recipe…it’s a personal indulgence for me:)
  Reply
Karen Franks
July 08, 2022 at 1:41 pm
Delicious! I’ve never made a homemade bbq sauce before, and this is a keeper!
Reply
Susan Dorling
May 21, 2022 at 12:19 pm
Hey Shane,
Love this BBQ sauce! Fabulous depth of flavor and it’s super easy to whip up. Better than any commercial sauce I’ve tried.
I only discovered your blog a few months ago and every recipe I’ve tried so far exceeds all expectations. My vegan journey began in 2014, so I subscribe to at least 20 vegan food blogs — yours is my favorite by far! What can I say, Shane, you are “simply the best.” Really like your style. Thanks for all your great recipes.
Reply
- Shane Martin
  May 22, 2022 at 4:18 pm
  Wow, Susan! Thank you so much for the kind words. Congrats on your journey and for letting me be a part of it, I’m honored! Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or comments.
  Blessings,
  shane
  Reply
Bobbie
December 18, 2021 at 6:21 pm
I made this today to use for marinating some tempeh and it is delicious. So easy and quick and no cooking on the stovetop. Instant BBQ sauce!! Thank you for the tasty recipe.
Reply
Devonne Lopez
August 29, 2021 at 2:38 pm
Hello is it the mesquite liquid smoke or the natural Hickory liquid smoke that you used? Thank you
Reply
- Shane Martin
  See Also
  The Easiest Homemade Playdough Recipe {Lasts for Months!}
  August 29, 2021 at 6:05 pm
  Either one. It’s all about preference really.
  Reply
  - Devonne Lopez
    August 29, 2021 at 10:57 pm
    Lol. Yes I know and thank you for responding so quickly. I was just wondering which one you used for this. Thank you again.
    Reply
Greer Powell
August 14, 2021 at 4:59 pm
I plan to make your BBQ Sauce. I have read ad nauseam information on vegan maple syrup brands—many list sugar as an ingredient but fail to specify if it is organic, You mentioned Well Your World in a previous comment. Would that same company be your recommendation for maple syrup? I thank you in advance.
Reply
- Shane Martin
  August 14, 2021 at 10:38 pm
  Greer, bottom line, any organic maple syrup will be fine.
  Reply
Katrina White
May 15, 2021 at 9:23 pm
So good!
Reply
Diane K
March 25, 2021 at 7:30 pm
So I had a “Bob Ross” happy little accident moment making the bbq sauce. I accidentally grabbed sesame oil instead of liquid smoke. Not wanting to dump out all the ingredients, I just also added the liquid smoke. Delicious, I may just make this mistake every time.
Reply
Cynthia
March 20, 2021 at 10:28 am
You nailed it Shane. Simple, quick and absolutely deelicious! I had some roasted garlic and onion on hand and threw that in the blender with all the other ingredients and it was better than my regular recipe I have been using for years!
Reply
Luci
February 09, 2021 at 5:10 pm
Can I make a double or triple batch of this yummy bbq sauce and freeze it?
Reply
- Shane Martin
  February 12, 2021 at 10:39 am
  Yes!
  Reply
Carolyn Wheeler
July 12, 2020 at 4:29 pm
Sorry, forgot to give it a star rating.
Reply
- Shane Martin
  July 14, 2020 at 11:12 am
  Much appreciated:)
  Reply
Amanda
May 27, 2020 at 3:14 pm
What brand of ketchup do you use?
Reply
- Shane Martin
  May 27, 2020 at 5:46 pm
  I use any organic ketchup or one that does not use corn syrup. If you are looking for one that salt, oil, and sugar free you should look at the Well Your World brand. Excellent products! Here is a link: https://wellyourworld.com/collections/all-product/products/tomato-ketchup?variant=29168760684647
  Reply
Patricia Kurschinski
February 23, 2020 at 11:32 pm
The best BBQ sauce ever! Yum
Reply
- Shane Martin
  February 24, 2020 at 8:52 am
  Thank you so much!
  Reply
Cici
October 29, 2019 at 11:02 am
Great recipe but liquid smoke, smoked paprika have excitotoxins? Allergy trigger. Any suggestions? May try with sun dried tomatoes. Thanks for all you do to make it easy to cook.
Reply
- Shane Martin
  October 29, 2019 at 12:57 pm
  Hi, CiCi. I would encourage you to read this article by Dr. Michael Greger and hopefully, it will answer your question. I would definitely encourage you to try and make it with sun-dried tomatoes as they are some of my favorite things to use. I hope this helps and thanks for your kind words. Blessings.
  https://nutritionfacts.org/2015/04/14/does-liquid-smoke-cause-cancer/
  Reply
Madeline Reynolds
September 23, 2019 at 11:08 am
Thank you Shane for the BBQ sauce recipe. I am an Innkeeper/restaurant manager in Belize and new convert to WFPB living. We often get requests for BBQ Sauce. Since I hate the bottled stuff (so much high fructose!) your recipe is a quick and easy substitute. My staff is amazed on how great the BBQ sauce tastes
Reply
- Shane Martin
  September 23, 2019 at 2:24 pm
  Wow, that’s great! I’ve always wanted to visit Belize. One day, hopefully. And, great to hear about your “conversion”. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or comments. I’m so honored you’re using my BBQ sauce. Thank you!!!
  Reply
Todd
April 03, 2019 at 2:45 am
What could I substitute for the Worcestershire sauce? I have been unable to locate any vegan versions locally. Thanks!
Reply
- Shane Martin
  April 03, 2019 at 10:05 am
  Todd, try this: 2 teaspoons soy sauce, 1/4 teaspoon lemon juice, 1/4 teaspoon maple syrup and a dash of hot sauce for every tablespoon Worcestershire.
  Reply
- Carolyn Wheeler
  July 12, 2020 at 4:28 pm
  This recipe is crazy good!! It’s even better than the standard recipe which I have made for years and loved. The only variation I did was that I did not use a store-bought Worcester sauce. I couldn’t find a vegan one either, so I searched online, found a recipe, made my own vegan Worcester sauce, and used that.
  This is a keeper for sure!! 🙂
  Reply
  - Shane Martin
    July 14, 2020 at 11:12 am
    Thank you, Carolyn!!!
    Reply
Maureen Longlade
February 17, 2019 at 10:21 am
I made this BBQ sauce yesterday& we dipped our breaded tofu strips in it. It was delicious. The best I’ve tried yet & the easiest. It’s a keeper for sure. ?Thank you.
Reply
Shane Martin
February 12, 2019 at 1:58 pm
Simple, easy and delicious!
Reply
- Trica Stopowski
  January 09, 2023 at 4:59 pm
  So easy and tasty! I will make it again and again. Thanks!
  Reply

Easy Homemade BBQ Sauce Recipe (Vegan) - Shane & Simple (2024)

FAQs

What is vegan BBQ sauce made of? ›

Plop your organic ketchup in a mixing bowl. Pour in the soy sauce or tamari, vinegar, maple syrup, molasses, vegan Worcestershire sauce, and liquid smoke. Add the BBQ spice blend. Whisk the ingredients to combine.

Tell Me More ›

What is the first ingredient in BBQ sauce? ›

The base ingredients of barbecue sauce usually include tomato sauce or ketchup, vinegar, and sweeteners, such as molasses or brown sugar. Other common ingredients include Worcestershire sauce, mustard, garlic, onion powder, and various spices, which can include paprika, cumin, and chili powder.

How to make BBQ sauce taste homemade? ›

Adding garlic or onion powder are standard flavors for barbecue, but get a little creative and try out different chile powders, peppers, cumin, or dried herbs to add body to the sauce.

Tell Me More ›

Is BBQ sauce just ketchup and sugar? ›

Ketchup is the base of the sauce, Worcestershire sauce adds umami, light brown sugar brings sweetness, vinegar brings tang, and two spices, paprika and cayenne pepper, add a smoky flavor and some heat.

Explore More ›

Is Baby Ray's BBQ sauce vegan? ›

You've likely come across Sweet Baby Ray's Barbecue Sauce at the grocery store. So, you'll be happy to know that the majority of this budget-friendly condiment's flavors are vegan. We're talking Original, Sweet Golden Mustard, No Sugar Added, Hickory and Brown Sugar, and more. Just keep an eye out for honey.

Know More ›

Is Chick Fil A barbecue sauce vegan? ›

When it comes to adding a bit of extra flavor to your veganized menu item, a little sauce or dressing goes a long way. Chick-fil-A has quite a few animal-free options to choose from, including the standard ketchup, mustard, and BBQ, but also chili lime vinaigrette dressing and sweet and spicy sriracha.

Find Out More ›

What is traditional barbecue sauce made of? ›

Ingredients vary, but most include vinegar or tomato paste (or a combination) as a base, as well as liquid smoke, onion powder, spices such as mustard and black pepper, and sweeteners such as sugar or molasses.

Learn More Now ›

What gives BBQ sauce its distinct flavor? ›

Spices and seasonings: A variety of spices and seasonings are added to BBQ sauce to enhance its flavor. Common spices include paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cayenne pepper, and mustard powder. These ingredients contribute to the distinct taste and aroma of the sauce.

How do you make cheap BBQ sauce taste better? ›

Add smoky, spicy, or tangy flavors for a semi-homemade bbq sauce that tastes just like it's from scratch. You can spice up bbq sauce and add some texture and flavor to store-bought bbq sauce with chopped kimchi, bacon bits, sautéed onions, or jalapeños, fresh herbs, or fruit like pineapple and peaches.

Read The Full Story ›

Is it worth making your own barbecue sauce? ›

This sweet-and-savory Homemade BBQ Sauce Recipe tastes so much better than store-bought, and it's cheaper too. Best of all, you can make it with better ingredients and fewer preservatives.

Show Me More ›

How do you thicken homemade BBQ sauce? ›

You can use either flour or cornstarch to thicken BBQ sauce. Just mix together 2 tbsp (16 g) of flour and ¼ cup (62.5 mL) of water, or combine 1 tbsp (9 g) of cornstarch with 1 tbsp (15 mL) of water. Continue mixing the thickener until there are no lumps of flour or cornstarch.

Get More Info ›

What to use in place of barbecue sauce? ›

But if you are looking for some alternative sauces with that sweet tinge to prepare baby ribs for your weekend get-together, here are some options.

Hoisin Sauce. ...
Plum Sauce. ...
Mustard Sauce. ...
Teriyaki Sauce. ...
Fruit-Based Sauces.

Discover More Details ›

Is barbecue sauce just ketchup and vinegar? ›

Early homemade barbecue sauce simply consisted of salt, pepper, and vinegar. Then, in the 1920s, barbeque sauce started having ingredients like sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup. Nowadays, though, BBQ sauce has so many other ingredients in addition to the original ones.

What can you substitute for ketchup in barbecue sauce? ›

Ingredients

2 cups (480g) tomato sauce/puree (not tomato paste)
1/4 cup (80g) pure maple syrup.
2 tablespoons (40g) regular molasses (not blackstrap) can be found at walmart, many stores.
2 tablespoons (30g) apple cider vinegar.

More items...

Find Out More ›

What makes BBQ sauce not vegan? ›

Obviously anything with meat, milk, or eggs is out, but sometimes those animal ingredients hide under stealthier labels that you may not know. Look out for these ingredients that render a BBQ sauce definitively not vegan: Honey. It's made by bees, so most vegans won't go near it.

Is BBQ sauce usually vegan? ›

Typically, BBQ sauce is vegan, although there are a few key ingredients to look out for when shopping at your local grocery store. BBQ sauce has a ketchup-like base that's usually supplemented with plenty of spices and a touch of smokey flavor.

View Details ›

What BBQ sauce is not vegan? ›

Due to anchovies, you definitely want to avoid these sauces: Heinz Kansas City Style BBQ Sauce. Heinz Memphis Style BBQ Sauce. Heinz Texas Style BBQ Sauce.

What is BBQ sauce mostly made of? ›

Easy Homemade BBQ Sauce Recipe (Vegan) - Shane & Simple (2024)

BBQ Sauce Ingredients

How To Make Easy Homemade BBQ Sauce

Homemade BBQ Sauce

Easy Homemade BBQ Sauce

Ingredients

Instructions

Nutrition

Save this recipe & PIN IT here!

More Dressings & Sauces

Reader Interactions

Comments

Let Me Hear From You!

FAQs

What is vegan BBQ sauce made of? ›

How do you thicken homemade BBQ sauce? ›