Root Beer BBQ Sauce

One of my favorite sauces pre keto was a Root Beer BBQ sauce…it took a while before I was ready to duplicate, but here it is and it was wonderful!

Root Beer BBQ Sauce

Ingredients

• 1 can Zevia root beer
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp molasses (skip if you are strict)
• 1 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp minced onion
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 tsp minced ginger (ginger paste)
• 1-2 tbsp bourbon
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp liquid smoke
• 1/2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 2-4 tbs brown sweetener (+/- based on desired sweetness)
• 1 cup ketchup (sugar free) (1 can diced tomatoes, blended)
• 1 tbsp mustard (I like a sweet hot mustard)
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/8 tsp pepper
• 1/2 -1 tsp chili powder
• 1-3 tsp lime juice (if needed to cut the sweet)
• 1/8 tsp xanthan gum (optional, if needed to thicken)

Steps

1. In a medium sauce pan, simmer root beer and balsamic until reduced by half
2. Saute onion, garlic and ginger in the butter in a small pan
3. Add softened onion mix to reduced root beer
4. Add other liquid ingredients, stir and heat for about 5 minutes
5. Add sweetener, ketchup, mustard and seasonings.
6. Simmer another 5-10 minutes and taste…add lime juice and adjust seasonings if needed.
7. Allow to cool or brush on meats and grill.

Notes

Add any other seasonings and flavors to make it perfect for you. I like a little orange juice  or orange zest.