First, add the tomato paste and water to a saucepan. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and lump-free. Next, pour in the vinegar and add the sugar. Mix until the sugar starts to dissolve.
Add salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, ground clove, and cinnamon. Mix everything together until well blended.
Place the pan over medium-low heat and let it simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring every few minutes. This helps all the flavors come together and gives it a nice, rich texture.
If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more water. If it's too thin, stir in a cornstarch slurry and simmer for another 2–3 minutes.
Finally, taste and adjust the flavor. If it’s too sour, add a little more sugar. If it’s too sweet, add a dash more vinegar.
Let the sauce cool completely, then store it in a clean, airtight glass jar in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to 2 weeks.
