How to Make Awesome Sauce: This Easy BBQ Sauce Recipe Makes an Awesome Valentine's Day Gift by Cheryl Leahy

My son loves to give gifts and adores whipping up things in the kitchen. At 4, there aren't a lot of things he can do, but I found this fantastic recipe for barbecue sauce that he can make. Valentine's Day is a perfect holiday to have kids show how much they appreciate family and friends in their life. This awesome sauce recipe makes a perfect gift for teachers!

You'll need:

• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 3 tablespoons Worcestershire
• 2 teaspoons liquid smoke
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• cayenne pepper (optional)

Here’s how to make it: 

1. Whisk ingredients together in a saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. 
2. Reduce to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until sauce has thickened a bit.
3. Pour into jars and seal.

Here's how to decorate it for Valentine's Day:

• Cut out some Valentine-themed fabric and place on top of the lid.
• Screw band over the fabric. 
• Tie baker's twine around the band and add a gift tag. 

An instant adorable (and yummy) gift! Get more tips on making Awesome Sauce!

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