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Vegan bbq sauce in a jar on a cutting board.
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Best Vegan BBQ Sauce

This is the best Vegan BBQ Sauce with a subtly smoky flavor and the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. It's also easy to make, requiring just 9 simple ingredients and ready in less than 25 minutes!
Course Sauces & Dressings
Cuisine American
Diet Gluten Free, Vegan, Vegetarian
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 77kcal
Author Rachel

Equipment

  • Blender

Ingredients

  • 1 cup dates pitted and soaked in hot water for 15 minutes
  • 6 oz can tomato paste
  • 1 cup water
  • ¼ cup apple cider vinegar or distilled white vinegar
  • ¼ cup applesauce unsweetened
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • If you don't have a high speed blender, soak dates in hot water for at least 15 minutes to soften, then drain and add to your blender along with the rest of the ingredients.
  • Blend until smooth. You may need to scrape down the sides of the blender a couple times.
  • Add the BBQ sauce to a saucepan over medium-high heat and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer for 10-15 minutes stirring occasionally.
  • Transfer to a jar and allow to cool. Enjoy!

Notes

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This BBQ sauce keeps for several weeks.
Like it spicy? Add a little chili powder, cayenne powder or some of your favorite hot sauce.
Like it sweeter? Add a little maple syrup.
If you're in a hurry you can skip the cooking step as it is technically safe to eat, but heating it allows the flavors to meld together better for a richer flavor.

Nutrition

Calories: 77kcal | Carbohydrates: 19g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 171mg | Potassium: 360mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 15g | Vitamin A: 451IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 18mg | Iron: 1mg