BBQ Sauce I

Coming up with the ultimate homemade bbq sauce recipe has been a goal of mine for a couple of years now.  My favorite store bought sauce is Anna Mae's Smoky Sweet Sauce....it's sooooo good!  It has the perfect amount of sweetness and spice, and it is good on everything!  

Over the years my homemade sauce has evolved, and this one I've come up with is pretty darn good if I do say so myself.  However, I have given it the name of "BBQ Sauce I" because I know I still have not formulated the perfect recipe just yet.  So even though this sauce is a keeper, my quest continues.....

   
BBQ Sauce I

1/2 onion, minced
1/2 cup tomato paste
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1 1/2 cups water
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 tbsp Bourban
1 tbsp molasses
2 1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1/4 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
2 tsp red pepper jelly
1/2 tsp hot sauce

Heat 2 tspn olive oil in a medium saucepan on medium-low, then add the onions.  Cook onions for about 5 minutes while stirring.  Add the rest of the ingredients and stir well to combine.  Bring mixture to a boil then reduce heat and let it simmer for at least an hour, or until thickened.  

* Note:  As with most sauces, I find it's better on the second day, after it's had time for all the flavors to set together.  However, if you don't have that kind of time it's OK to use right away and it will still be delicious!