There’s something about a good barbecue sauce that just makes everything better. And when it comes to North Carolina BBQ Sauce, you’re in for a real treat. This sauce is bold, tangy, and packed with deep, smoky flavors that cling beautifully to whatever you slather it on. Whether you’re basting ribs, drizzling it over pulled pork, or using it as a dip, this one’s a game-changer. Trust me, you’re going to love this!
Why You’ll Love North Carolina BBQ Sauce
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile
This sauce works with everything! It’s perfect for pork, chicken, ribs, sandwiches, or even as a dipping sauce for fries. No matter what’s on the menu, this BBQ sauce will elevate it.
Budget-Friendly
Made with simple pantry staples, this recipe won’t break the bank. You likely have most of the ingredients on hand already!
Quick and Easy
No complicated steps here! With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of simmering, you’ll have a delicious homemade sauce in no time.
Customizable
Want it spicier? Sweeter? Smokier? You’re in control. Adjust the seasonings to make this sauce exactly how you like it.
Crowd-Pleasing
A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients in North Carolina BBQ Sauce
Here’s what makes this sauce so irresistible it’s made with just a handful of ingredients, but the depth of flavor is off the charts. Let’s break it down:
Apple Cider Vinegar
The backbone of this sauce! It gives that signature tangy kick and keeps the sauce light and zesty.
Ketchup
Adds a bit of sweetness and depth, balancing out the vinegar’s sharpness beautifully.
Brown Sugar
A touch of brown sugar helps to mellow out the acidity while adding a rich caramelized flavor.
Red Pepper Flakes
For a little heat! You can adjust the amount depending on how spicy you like it.
Worcestershire Sauce
This brings in a deep umami richness that enhances all the other flavors.
Mustard
A little mustard adds a tangy punch that complements the vinegar base.
Salt and Black Pepper
Simple seasonings that make all the difference, bringing out the best in every ingredient.
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Heat the Vinegar Base
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, warm up the apple cider vinegar until it’s just about to simmer. This helps it absorb all the bold flavors to come.
Add the Flavor Boosters
Stir in the ketchup, brown sugar, red pepper flakes, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good stir until everything is well combined.
Simmer to Perfection
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes. This step allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent any sticking.
Taste and Adjust
Give it a taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Want it sweeter? Add a bit more brown sugar. Need more heat? Toss in extra red pepper flakes.
Cool and Store
Remove from heat and let the sauce cool completely before transferring it to a jar or airtight container. It tastes even better after sitting for a few hours!
Serve and Enjoy
Drizzle, dip, baste, or smother this sauce is ready to take your BBQ to the next level!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 12 (about 1/4 cup per serving)
Calories per serving: 50-70 kcal (depending on sugar content and portion size)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time:5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
How to Serve North Carolina BBQ Sauce
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- Brush it over grilled chicken, ribs, or pulled pork for an authentic BBQ feast
- Drizzle it over a pulled pork sandwich for extra flavor
- Use it as a dipping sauce for fries, onion rings, or chicken tenders
- Mix it into baked beans for a smoky, tangy twist
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- Let it rest: The flavors deepen after a few hours, so if you have time, make it ahead!
- Store properly: Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.
- Reheat gently: If needed, warm it on low heat to bring it back to its best consistency.
- Experiment with flavors: Add a splash of hot sauce or honey for a unique twist.
FAQ
Can I make this BBQ sauce ahead of time? Yes! In fact, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop.
How long does this BBQ sauce last? Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it will keep for about two weeks.
Can I freeze this BBQ sauce? Absolutely! Pour it into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to three months.
What can I use instead of apple cider vinegar? White vinegar or even lemon juice can work in a pinch, though the flavor will change slightly.
Is this BBQ sauce spicy? It has a mild kick, but you can easily adjust the spice level by adding more or less red pepper flakes.
Can I make this sauce thicker? Yes! Simmer it a little longer or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water.
What’s the best way to reheat this sauce? Warm it over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Can I use this sauce as a marinade? Definitely! It’s great for marinating meats before grilling or roasting.
Is this sauce gluten-free? Most ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but double-check your Worcestershire sauce as some brands contain gluten.
Can I use honey instead of brown sugar? Yes! Honey adds a lovely depth of sweetness and works well as a substitute.
Conclusion
North Carolina BBQ Sauce is the perfect balance of tangy, smoky, and slightly sweet, making it a must-have for any BBQ lover. It’s easy to make, customizable, and works with so many dishes. Whether you’re slathering it on pulled pork, using it as a dip, or brushing it onto grilled meats, this sauce is sure to be a hit. Give it a try, and trust me you’ll never go back to store-bought BBQ sauce again!
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North Carolina BBQ Sauce
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 1 ½ cups 1x
- Category: Condiments
- Method: Stove
- Cuisine: American (Southern)
Description
This tangy and vinegar-based North Carolina BBQ Sauce is perfect for any grilled meat, especially pork! Its bold, spicy flavors will elevate your barbecue experience. Made with just a few simple ingredients, it’s quick to prepare and packs a punch.
Ingredients
- 2 cups apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine all ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Once it boils, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Stir the sauce well to ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Remove from heat and let it cool before serving.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Notes
- This sauce is great for pulled pork sandwiches or grilled chicken.
- Adjust the level of heat by adding more or less red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
- If you like it sweeter, increase the sugar to taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 10 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg