Combine the base ingredients: In a medium saucepan, add the tomato paste, tamari (or coconut aminos), apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Stir them together until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Season the sauce: Next, add the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and ground black pepper. Stir to ensure the spices are evenly distributed. This is where the magic happens—the flavors start to meld together!

Add water to adjust consistency: Pour in about ½ cup of water, depending on how thick or thin you prefer your BBQ sauce. Stir the mixture and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

Simmer for flavor: Allow the sauce to simmer for about 15–20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This will help the flavors intensify and develop that perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and smoky.

Taste and tweak: After simmering, taste your sauce! This is the fun part—adjust the seasoning as needed. Want more sweetness? Add a little more brown sugar. Prefer a stronger smoky flavor? Toss in a pinch more smoked paprika. Feel free to add hot sauce or cayenne for an extra kick if desired.

Cool and store: Once you’re happy with the flavor, remove the sauce from the heat and let it cool. You can use it right away or keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.