This North Carolina BBQ Sauce is bold, tangy, and slightly spicy, made with vinegar, spices, and a touch of sweetness. Unlike thick, tomato-based sauces, this thin vinegar-based sauce is perfect for pulled pork, grilled chicken, and ribs. It’s a must-have for authentic Carolina-style BBQ!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tangy & bold – Apple cider vinegar adds a bright, zesty flavor.
- Authentic Eastern & Western NC flavors – Customizable for your favorite style.
- Simple ingredients – Made with pantry staples in just minutes.
- Perfect for pork – Enhances smoky, slow-cooked meats without overpowering.
- No cooking required – Just mix and let the flavors meld!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For Eastern North Carolina Style (Tangy & Spicy):
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup white vinegar
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional, for depth)
For Western North Carolina (Lexington-Style, Slightly Sweet & Tomato-Based):
- ¾ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
Directions
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
- In a bowl or jar, whisk together all ingredients until well combined.
- If using the Lexington-style sauce, whisk in ketchup and Worcestershire sauce.
Step 2: Let It Rest
- For the best flavor, let the sauce sit for at least 1 hour (or overnight) to meld.
Step 3: Serve & Enjoy!
- Drizzle over pulled pork, ribs, smoked chicken, or grilled meats.
- Serve as a mop sauce, basting meats while cooking.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes about 1 cup
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Variations
- Sweeter Sauce – Add 1 tbsp honey or molasses.
- Spicier Version – Increase cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- Garlic Lovers – Add extra garlic powder or fresh minced garlic.
- Thicker BBQ Sauce – Simmer for 5-10 minutes to reduce.
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store in a sealed jar for up to 1 month.
- Shake before using, as the vinegar and spices may separate.
FAQs
What’s the difference between Eastern & Western NC BBQ sauce?
- Eastern NC Sauce: Vinegar-based, no ketchup, very tangy.
- Western (Lexington) Sauce: Vinegar + ketchup, slightly sweeter.
Can I use white vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar?
Yes, but apple cider vinegar gives it a richer, smoother tang.
Is this sauce spicy?
It has a mild kick, but you can adjust red pepper flakes and cayenne to taste.
What meats pair best with this sauce?
Pulled pork, smoked ribs, grilled chicken, and brisket.
Can I use this as a marinade?
Yes! Marinate pork or chicken for 2-4 hours before grilling or smoking.
Does this sauce need to be cooked?
No, but simmering for 5 minutes can deepen the flavor.
How do I make a mustard-based Carolina BBQ sauce?
Try adding ¼ cup yellow mustard for a South Carolina-style sauce.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes! Scale up as needed for large gatherings.
What’s the best way to use this sauce on pulled pork?
Drizzle over shredded pork or mix it in before serving.
Conclusion
This North Carolina BBQ Sauce is tangy, bold, and full of Carolina tradition! Whether you prefer Eastern vinegar-based or Western Lexington-style, this easy homemade sauce will take your BBQ to the next level. Try it today and enjoy real Southern flavor!
Print
North Carolina BBQ Sauce
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 2 cups 1x
- Category: Sauces & Condiments
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern, BBQ
Description
This North Carolina BBQ Sauce is tangy, slightly spicy, and vinegar-based, making it perfect for pulled pork, ribs, chicken, or brisket! Unlike thick, tomato-based sauces, this thin, flavorful sauce is designed to soak into the meat, enhancing every bite with bold Carolina-style flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar (for signature tang!)
- 1 cup white vinegar (balances the flavor!)
- 1/3 cup brown sugar (adds a touch of sweetness!)
- 1 tbsp ketchup (optional, for a hint of richness!)
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (like Texas Pete or Frank’s!)
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust for heat!)
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional, for extra depth!)
Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
- In a medium saucepan, combine apple cider vinegar, white vinegar, brown sugar, ketchup (if using), hot sauce, red pepper flakes, black pepper, salt, and garlic powder.
Step 2: Simmer the Sauce
- Heat over medium-low, stirring until the sugar dissolves (about 3-5 minutes).
- Do not boil—just let it gently warm so the flavors blend.
Step 3: Cool & Store
- Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
- Transfer to a jar or bottle and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight is best for flavor!).
How to Use
- Pulled Pork: Drizzle over or mix into shredded pork.
- Grilled Chicken: Brush on during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Ribs: Mop onto slow-cooked ribs for an extra tangy bite.
- Sandwiches: Use as a zesty condiment for BBQ sandwiches.
Notes
- Want it spicier? Add more hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
- Sweeter version? Increase brown sugar to ½ cup.
- More savory? Add 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce.
- Storage: Keep refrigerated for up to 1 month in a sealed container.