North carolina BBQ sauce

This tangy, slightly sweet, and spicy North Carolina BBQ Sauce is vinegar-based, giving it that classic Eastern-style Carolina kick. It’s perfect for pulled pork, ribs, or as a mop sauce for grilled meats!

🛒 Ingredients (Makes About 2 Cups)

  • 1 cup apple cider vinegar

  • 1 cup ketchup

  • ½ cup brown sugar

  • ⅓ cup yellow mustard

  • 1 tablespoon onion powder

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • ¼ teaspoon chili powder

  • ¼ teaspoon salt

  • Dash of Worcestershire sauce

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Combine Ingredients

  • Add all ingredients to a medium saucepan over low heat.

  • Whisk together until well combined.

2️⃣ Heat & Thicken

  • Increase heat to high and bring to a gentle boil.

  • Stir often and let it boil for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

  • Keep in mind, the sauce will thicken slightly as it cools.

3️⃣ Cool & Store

  • Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.

  • Pour into a mason jar or airtight container.

  • Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

🔥 How to Use It

✔️ Pulled pork – Drizzle over or mix into shredded pork.
✔️ BBQ chicken – Use as a glaze while grilling.
✔️ Ribs – Brush on during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
✔️ Dip – Use as a dipping sauce for fries or onion rings.

⏳ Cooking Time & Servings

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes

  • Cook Time: 5 minutes

  • Total Time: 10 minutes

  • Makes: About 2 cups

🔥 Enjoy the bold flavors of this Carolina classic! 🍖🔥

30 Popular Questions & Answers ❓✨

1️⃣ What makes North Carolina BBQ sauce different?

It’s vinegar-based with a tangy, slightly spicy kick, unlike tomato-heavy sauces.

2️⃣ Can I use white vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar?

Yes, but apple cider vinegar adds more depth of flavor.

3️⃣ Can I make this sauce without ketchup?

Yes! Eastern Carolina BBQ sauce doesn’t use ketchup—just vinegar, spices, and a little sugar.

4️⃣ How spicy is this sauce?

It has a mild heat, but you can add cayenne pepper or hot sauce for more kick.

5️⃣ Can I store this sauce at room temperature?

No, because of its ingredients, it should be refrigerated.

6️⃣ Can I freeze BBQ sauce?

Yes! Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

7️⃣ How long does it last in the fridge?

About 2 weeks in an airtight container.

8️⃣ How do I thicken the sauce?

Simmer it longer or stir in ½ teaspoon cornstarch mixed with water.

9️⃣ What can I use instead of mustard?

Try Dijon mustard or omit it for a thinner sauce.

🔟 Can I add liquid smoke?

Yes! ½ teaspoon will give it a smoky flavor.

1️⃣1️⃣ Can I use honey instead of brown sugar?

Yes! Honey will make it slightly sweeter.

1️⃣2️⃣ Is this good for basting?

Yes, but apply it at the end of grilling to avoid burning.

1️⃣3️⃣ Can I use it as a marinade?

Yes! Marinate meats for 2-3 hours before cooking.

1️⃣4️⃣ What meats pair best with this sauce?

Pulled pork, chicken, ribs, brisket, and even grilled fish!

1️⃣5️⃣ Can I make this sauce sugar-free?

Use a sugar substitute like monk fruit or erythritol.

1️⃣6️⃣ How do I make it tangier?

Add more vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

1️⃣7️⃣ What’s the best vinegar for this recipe?

Apple cider vinegar is best, but you can use white vinegar.

1️⃣8️⃣ How do I make it smokier?

Use liquid smoke, smoked paprika, or chipotle powder.

1️⃣9️⃣ Can I use this sauce on vegetables?

Yes! It’s great on roasted or grilled veggies.

2️⃣0️⃣ Does it taste better after sitting?

Yes! Letting it sit overnight enhances the flavors.

30 Tips to Make This BBQ Sauce Even More Delightful 🔥

🌶️ Flavor-Boosting Tips

  1. Use smoked paprika for extra depth.

  2. Add a splash of bourbon for richness.

  3. Stir in a tablespoon of maple syrup for a hint of sweetness.

  4. Try hot honey instead of brown sugar for heat and sweetness.

  5. Add a pinch of cinnamon to enhance the smoky flavor.

🥄 Texture & Thickness Tips

  1. Simmer longer for a thicker sauce.

  2. Use a cornstarch slurry for an extra-thick texture.

  3. Strain the sauce for a smoother consistency.

  4. Blend in cooked onions for a thicker sauce.

  5. Stir frequently while simmering to prevent burning.

🔥 Spice & Heat Adjustments

  1. Add ½ teaspoon cayenne for extra heat.

  2. Mix in a few dashes of hot sauce.

  3. Try chipotle powder for a smoky kick.

  4. Add extra black pepper for more bite.

  5. Use spicy brown mustard instead of yellow mustard.

🍋 Tanginess & Brightness Tips

  1. Increase vinegar for more tang.

  2. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

  3. Try balsamic vinegar for a richer taste.

  4. Mix in a tablespoon of Worcestershire for umami.

  5. Use Dijon mustard instead of yellow for more complexity.

🍖 Cooking & Usage Tips

  1. Brush onto ribs in the last 10 minutes of grilling.

  2. Toss shredded pork with warm sauce before serving.

  3. Use as a mop sauce while smoking meats.

  4. Dip grilled chicken tenders for a tangy twist.

  5. Drizzle over roasted sweet potatoes for a sweet-savory combo.

🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

  1. Store in a mason jar for easy pouring.

  2. Double the batch and freeze half for later.

  3. Shake before using to mix settled ingredients.

  4. Reheat in the microwave for 30 seconds before serving.

  5. Use within 2 weeks for best flavor.

🔥 Enjoy this bold and tangy North Carolina BBQ Sauce! 🍖🔥

SAVE IT FOR LATER IN PINTEREST
FacebookPinterest