How to make BBQ sauce Jamie Oliver?

Jamie Oliver’s BBQ sauce involves a richer ingredient list than this 3 ingredient BBQ sauce recipe molasses ketchup . He typically sautés onions and garlic, then adds ketchup, mustard, brown sugar, cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and often fruit like pineapple or apple. The sauce is then simmered until thick. It’s flavorful but more complex than our quick 3-ingredient version.

What thickens BBQ sauce?

BBQ sauce thickens primarily through simmering , which reduces moisture and concentrates flavors. In this 3 ingredient bbq sauce recipe molasses ketchup , molasses acts as a natural thickener. You can also use tomato paste, cornstarch slurry, or even brown sugar to boost thickness.

What gives BBQ sauce its distinct flavor?

The flavor of BBQ sauce comes from the balance of sweet, tangy, smoky, and savory elements. In this 3 ingredient recipe, ketchup provides tang and sweetness, molasses adds depth and body, and the optional ingredient (like vinegar or soy sauce) contributes the necessary acidity or umami. This trio creates a classic Southern-style profile.

What does molasses do for cooking?

Molasses adds a rich, bittersweet complexity to recipes. In the context of a 3 ingredient bbq sauce recipe molasses ketchup , molasses deepens the flavor, thickens the sauce, and gives it that signature dark, glossy finish. It also balances out the acidity of ketchup beautifully.

What can I use instead of molasses in barbeque sauce?

You can substitute molasses with brown sugar, honey, maple syrup, or dark corn syrup in equal amounts. Each will slightly change the taste of your BBQ sauce. While the result won’t be identical to a traditional 3 ingredient bbq sauce recipe molasses ketchup , these alternatives still deliver delicious results.

What thickens barbecue sauce?

Aside from reducing the sauce over heat, common thickeners include: Tomato paste Cornstarch slurry Brown sugar Molasses (as used in this recipe) These options are all compatible with a 3 ingredient bbq sauce recipe molasses ketchup , depending on what you want to achieve in texture and sweetness.

3 ingredient bbq sauce recipe molasses ketchup

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups ketchup
3 tablespoons molasses
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

Optional (for customization):

⅛ tsp red pepper flakes (for heat)
1 tbsp brown sugar (for extra sweetness)
2–3 drops liquid smoke (for smokiness)

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Instructions

Combine ketchup, molasses, and vinegar in a medium saucepan.
Stir well over medium-low heat until fully blended.
Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Remove from heat and let it cool.
Store in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Notes

Vegan Option: Use vegan Worcestershire sauce or tamari.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free ketchup and tamari instead of soy sauce.
Storage Tip: Freeze in ice cube trays for individual servings.

Author: Leona
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes

Nutrition

Serving Size: ¼ cup
Calories: 74 kcal
Sugar: 14g
Sodium: 671mg
Fat: 1g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 17g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg