30ml vegetable oil

1 onion, finely chopped

1 garlic clove, finely chopped

300ml passata

225g tomatoes, skinned, seeded and chopped

120ml cider vinegar

15ml Worcestershire sauce

70g soft light brown sugar

30ml chilli powder, or to taste

1 bay leave

salt and pepper

Heat the oil in a saucepan, add the onion and cook until soft, stirring occasionally.

Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add the passata, tomatoes, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, chilli powder and bay leaf.

Bring to the boil, reduce the heat, and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring from time to time. Taste and adjust the seasoning, if needed.

Use as a basting sauce for grilled or barbecued hamburgers, chicken, spareribs and steak. Serve additional sauce to accompany the food.