If you're looking to ramp up your sauce game instead of using the boring store bought BBQ sauce, you're in the right place. After trying this homemade pomegranate BBQ sauce, you will never go back to store bought again!
What you need
2 cups pomegranate juice 100% juice (see notes)
1 cup ketchup
3 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon ground mustard
fresh lime juice from half a lime
a few dashes of cayenne pepper optional, based on your taste
what to do
Whisk all of the ingredients, besides the lime juice and cayenne, together in a saucepan or high sided skillet. The more surface area (the larger the pan or skillet), the faster the sauce will reduce.
Cook the sauce over medium heat until it starts to bubble. Reduce the heat to medium low and allow it to simmer until it thickens, about 20 to 25 minutes. Stir constantly so the sauce on the bottom doesn’t burn.
When the sauce is thick and can coat the back of a spoon, remove it from the heat and add in the juice of half a lime. If using, add in a few dashes of cayenne and stir everything to combine.
During the last 30 minutes of grilling / smoking, brush your ribs with the pomegranate sauce every 10 minutes, allowing it to set and form a sticky glaze on the ribs.
Keep this sauce in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to 10 days.