Essential Spicy Barbecue Sauce

Instructions

• 1

  To make the spiced barbecue rub, put the paprika, dried onion, dried garlic, peppercorns, mustard seeds, salt and cayenne in the blender and secure the lid. PUREE for 45 seconds until the peppercorns are finely chopped. Add the brown sugar and secure the lid. BLEND for 15 seconds. You will need ½ cup (80g) for the homemade spicy barbecue sauce, transfer the remaining spice mixture to a clean, dry, airtight storage jar. Store in a cool, dark place for up to 3 months.

• 2

  To make the homemade spicy barbecue sauce, put the onion, garlic and hot pepper into the blender and secure the lid. PULSE 5-10 times until finely chopped, scraping down the mixture as required. Spoon into a bowl.

• 3

  Put the crushed tomatoes, ½ cup (80g) spiced barbecue rub, sugar, vinegar, molasses, honey and mustard in the blender and secure the lid. PUREE 40 – 50 seconds or until well combined.

• 4

  Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion mixture. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes until softened. Add the tomato mixture. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 30 minutes until sauce has thickened. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside to cool.

• 5

  Transfer to the blender and secure the lid. BLEND for 10 seconds until smooth. Transfer to an airtight storage jar and refrigerate for up to 2 months.

• 6

  Use with barbecued pork ribs, steak or chicken. Use as a sauce on pizza, burgers, or wraps.