BBQ sauce is my hubby’s number one in sauces. The New Primal or Tessamaes makes a delicious compliant Whole30 BBQ…but at $7+ a bottle, it doesn’t fit well into a budget. This sauce costs less than a $1 per cup! And it’s so flexible – like a little more of a kick? Add the chili powder. Want a smokey flavor? Add the liquid smoke. Less or more sweet? Use less or more dates. The liquid smoke is Wrights brand and I get it @wincofoods in the dressing isle.

Whole30 BBQ Sauce
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup water
- 6 oz can tomato paste Whole30 compatible if on Whole30
- 2-4 tablespoons date paste see recipe below
- 1 tablespoon balsamic or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon coconut aminos optional for more full flavor
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon compliant liquid smoke optional for smokey flavor
- 1/2-1 teaspoon chili powder optional for a kick
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and all ingredients are incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning - need a kick? Add the (or more) chipotle. Too thick? Add a little more water.
- Put sauce into a medium saucepan and bring to a boil over a medium heat. Reduce to low heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Cool to room temperature and then use or store in closed container in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.
Date Paste
Ingredients
- 1 cup pitted dates, packed
- 1/2 cup very hot water
Instructions
- Combine dates and hot water in a bowl and let sit for 1 minute. I usually press them down into the water a bit to ensure they are all soaking.
- Place dates and all the liquid in a blender or food processor and process for 30 seconds, or until smooth
- Store in a closed container in the fridge for up to 3-4 weeks.
I’d love to try this as I am new to Whole 30 and really miss BBQ sauce! What kind of mustard do you use? Ground, or yellow in a squeeze bottle?
Hi! I just use regular yellow French’s mustard, as it’s easy to find and compatible, but you can use any mustard that has compatible ingredients!
I just came back to make this recipe again. I really loved how easy and tasty it was. It was a little sweet for me personally, so I might try a few less dates next time.
Oh Autumn, this is unbelievable. My husband just said, “You can’t buy anything THIS good in a store.” It’s a keeper!!
Never buying bbq sauce again!! You’re the best
I’m so happy this is an easy new staple! Thank you!