east carolina barbecue sauce recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best east carolina barbecue sauce recipe

I’ve always been a fan of East Carolina-style barbecue, and this recipe is a staple in our household. It’s a simple yet flavorful sauce that’s perfect for slathering on ribs, chicken, or pork.

The key to this recipe is the use of vinegar and spices to create a tangy and aromatic flavor profile. I love that it’s easy to make in large batches, which is perfect for family gatherings or game-day parties.

My kids devour this sauce on everything from burgers to grilled vegetables, and I appreciate how healthy it is compared to other barbecue sauces on the market. The acidity from the vinegar helps to break down the proteins in meat, making it easier to digest.

Plus, the spices provide a nice depth of flavor without adding any extra sugar. We’ve even used this sauce as a marinade for chicken or beef before grilling, and it adds such a rich and complex flavor.

I’m so glad I stumbled upon this recipe – it’s become a part of our regular rotation and I know I’ll be making it for years to come.

East Carolina Barbecue Sauce

4.7 from 560 votes

This tangy, vinegar-based sauce is a staple of Eastern North Carolina barbecue. It is thin, sharp, and designed to complement the smoky flavor of pork.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time10 mins
Servings: 16Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 15 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Sauce

2 cups apple cider vinegar
1 cup water
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon kosher salt
1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Combine the apple cider vinegar, water, brown sugar, kosher salt, crushed red pepper flakes, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using in a medium bowl.
2Whisk vigorously until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved, about 1 minute.
3Transfer the sauce to a jar or bottle with a tight-fitting lid.
4Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before using to allow the flavors to meld.
5The sauce will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
6Use the sauce as a mop during cooking or as a finishing sauce for pulled pork.
7Brush it onto the meat during the last 30 minutes of cooking, or toss the finished pulled pork with the sauce to taste.

🔧Equipment

Medium bowl
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Storage jar or bottle

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 15 kcal🧈Total Fat: 0g💛Saturated Fat: 0g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 440mg🌾Total Carbs: 3g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 0g

📝Notes

This sauce is intentionally thin and acidic. Adjust the heat level by increasing or decreasing the crushed red pepper flakes and cayenne. For a milder sauce, reduce or omit the cayenne.

Watch Video Of How East Carolina Barbecue Sauce Works

This East Carolina-style barbecue sauce recipe has become a staple in our household, and I’m confident it will be a hit with your family too. The best part?

It’s incredibly easy to make and customize to your taste preferences. Whether you’re serving it at a backyard BBQ or just want something new to try at home, give this recipe a shot – your taste buds will thank you!

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About East Carolina Barbecue Sauce

Q1: What makes East Carolina-style barbecue sauce special?

East Carolina-style barbecue sauce is known for its vinegar-based flavor profile, which sets it apart from other regional styles. This acidity helps to break down the proteins in meat, making it easier to digest.

Q2: Can I use this sauce on non-meat dishes?

This sauce is not just limited to meats – we love using it on grilled vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Simply brush the sauce on during the last few minutes of grilling and enjoy!

Q3: How long does this sauce keep in the fridge?

This sauce will keep for up to 6 months in the fridge, but we’ve found that it lasts longer when stored in an airtight container.

Q4: Can I adjust the level of spiciness in this recipe?

Of course! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce or omit the red pepper flakes. If you like it hotter, add more flakes or even try using hot sauce.

Q5: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, but keep in mind that some store-bought Worcestershire sauce may contain animal products. Be sure to choose a vegetarian-friendly option if you’re cooking for veggie guests.

Similar Posts