If you’re a fan of BBQ sauce, you know that nothing quite beats the taste of a homemade batch. However, if you’re planning on canning your BBQ sauce for later use, you might run into issues with its consistency.
Homemade BBQ sauce can be thin and runny, making it difficult to apply to meats or vegetables without making a mess. Fortunately, there are several ways to thicken your homemade BBQ sauce for canning purposes.
Option 1: Add Tomato Paste
Tomato paste is a great thickening agent for any sauce, including BBQ sauce. It’s also a great way to add some additional flavor to your homemade batch.
Simply add a few tablespoons of tomato paste to your BBQ sauce and stir it in until it’s fully incorporated. You may need to let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to allow the tomato paste to fully thicken the mixture.
Tip: If you don’t have tomato paste on hand, you can also use ketchup as a substitute.
Option 2: Use Cornstarch
Cornstarch is another common thickening agent that can be used in sauces and gravies. To thicken your homemade BBQ sauce using cornstarch, first mix together equal parts cornstarch and water in a small bowl until it forms a smooth paste.
Then add the mixture to your BBQ sauce while stirring constantly. Allow the mixture to heat up and simmer for several minutes until it reaches your desired thickness.
Tip: Be sure not to add too much cornstarch at once as this can cause clumping. Start with small amounts and gradually increase until you reach the desired consistency.
Option 3: Simmer Your Sauce
Sometimes all your homemade BBQ sauce needs is some extra time on the stove. By allowing your mixture to simmer for an extended period of time, excess liquid will evaporate, and your sauce will naturally thicken. Be sure to stir your sauce frequently to prevent it from burning or sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Tip: If you’re short on time, try simmering your BBQ sauce for at least 20-30 minutes before canning.
Option 4: Add a Roux
A roux is a mixture of flour and fat that is used as a thickening agent in many sauces and gravies. To make a roux for your BBQ sauce, first melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
Once melted, add an equal amount of flour and whisk until it forms a smooth paste. Slowly add this mixture to your BBQ sauce while stirring constantly until it reaches the desired thickness.
Tip: Be sure not to overcook your roux as this can cause it to burn and alter the flavor of your BBQ sauce.
In conclusion, there are several ways to thicken homemade BBQ sauce for canning purposes. Whether you choose to add tomato paste, cornstarch, simmer your mixture, or add a roux, these methods will help transform your runny homemade batch into a thick and flavorful BBQ sauce that’s perfect for canning and later use.