This James Martin-style BBQ sauce is rich, smoky, and beautifully balanced with sweetness and gentle spice. The texture is thick and glossy, perfect for brushing over grilled meats or using as a dipping sauce. It is an easy recipe that suits beginners and experienced cooks alike, and it comes together in under 30 minutes. Ideal for barbecues, burgers, and everyday cooking when you want bold homemade flavour.
Ingredients
For the BBQ Sauce Base
- 250 ml tomato ketchup
- 60 ml apple cider vinegar
- 60 g soft brown sugar
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp runny honey
- 1 tbsp tomato purée
- 1 small onion, very finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp mustard powder
- 1 tsp chilli powder, optional
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 50 ml water, if needed for thinning
How to Make James Martin Bbq Sauce Recipe
- Prepare the pan: Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook gently for 4 to 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Add aromatics: Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Mix the sauce: Add ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, honey, tomato purée, and all spices. Stir thoroughly so everything blends smoothly.
- Simmer gently: Reduce heat and let the sauce simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and glossy.
- Adjust texture and flavour: Add a splash of water if the sauce becomes too thick. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra sweetness as preferred.
- Cool and store: Remove from heat and allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring to jars or bottles. The flavour improves as it rests.
Tips for the Best BBQ Sauce
How do I make the sauce smokier?
Add extra smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke for a deeper barbecue flavour.
Why is my sauce too thin?
Simmer it longer so moisture evaporates, which thickens the sauce naturally.
Can I make it less sweet?
Reduce the honey or sugar slightly and increase vinegar for a tangier finish.
How do I avoid burning the sauce?
Cook on low heat and stir occasionally, especially as the sauce thickens.
Serving Suggestions
- Brush over grilled chicken, ribs, or sausages
- Serve as a burger or sandwich sauce
- Use as a dip for fries or wedges
- Mix into pulled pork or shredded chicken
Storage
Room Temperature
Not recommended due to sugar content. Always cool and refrigerate promptly.
Refrigerator
Store in a sealed jar for up to 2 weeks. Flavour deepens after a day or two.
Freezing
Freeze in small containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.
Nutrition
- Calories: 60 kcal per serving
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Protein: 0.5 g
- Fat: 1 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.1 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
FAQs
Can I use this sauce for marinating meat?
Yes, it works very well as a marinade for chicken, pork, or beef. Marinate for at least one hour or overnight for deeper flavour.
Can I make the sauce spicier?
Add more chilli powder, cayenne pepper, or fresh chopped chilli to increase heat.
Can this BBQ sauce be used on pizza?
Yes, it makes an excellent smoky base for barbecue chicken pizza or pulled pork toppings.
How long does homemade BBQ sauce last?
When refrigerated in a sealed container, it keeps well for up to two weeks.
