Keto-Friendly BBQ Sauce

This tangy and smoky sauce is perfect for adding bold flavor to your favorite grilled dishes without any added sugar. It’s a simple, low-carb way to enjoy classic BBQ taste while staying on track with your keto goals.

Start cooking ↓

TIME35 min

SERVINGS4

RATING5.0 / 5

01 / WHAT YOU NEED

Ingredients

2 (6 ounce) cans sugar-free tomato paste 1 tablespoon gluten-free Worcestershire sauce 1 tablespoon fish sauce 1 tablespoon hickory-flavored liquid smoke 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon mustard ½ teaspoon garlic powder ½ teaspoon onion powder ½ teaspoon ground turmeric ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 ½ cups water ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, or to taste

02 / HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

Step 1

Start by combining the tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, fish sauce, liquid smoke, both types of paprika, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, turmeric, cinnamon, and water in a medium skillet over medium heat. Whisk everything together until smooth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring often to keep it from sticking. Once it’s bubbling, turn the heat down to a low simmer. Keep stirring every now and then and let it cook uncovered until it thickens up to your liking, which usually takes about 20 minutes. Taste and add cayenne pepper to give it a little kick. When it’s done, take it off the heat and let it cool completely before using.

03 / EXTRA DETAILS

Good to know.

Cook's tip

- Use a low and slow simmer to deepen the flavors without burning the sauce.
- Adjust the sweetness with a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or stevia to suit your taste.
- Add a splash of apple cider vinegar at the end for a bright, tangy finish.

Why you’ll love it

This sauce brings all the smoky, tangy flavors you crave without the added sugars. It’s perfect for anyone following a low-carb or ketogenic lifestyle, making it easier to enjoy your favorite BBQ dishes guilt-free.

Serving ideas

This sauce pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, pork ribs, or beef brisket. It also works great as a dipping sauce for veggies or as a flavorful marinade before cooking.

Storage & leftovers

Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Stir well before each use, as natural ingredients may separate over time. You can also freeze it in small portions for longer storage.