Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons safflower oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon coarse salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 (28 ounce) can whole canned tomatoes, pureed with juice
  • 3/4 cup water, plus more if needed
  • 1/4 cup packed dark brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons cider vinegar

Method

  • Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Cook onion, garlic, salt, and pepper until onion is translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in chili powder, and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  • Add tomatoes, 3/4 cup water, the sugar, and ketchup. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer, partially covered and stirring occasionally, for 1 1/2 hours. Add more water as needed to avoid scorching. Let cool slightly.
  • Working in batches, puree sauce in a blender. Stir in vinegar; season with salt and pepper. Let cool.