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
Scale
- 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.