eastern nc barbecue sauce recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
eastern nc barbecue sauce recipe
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The Best eastern nc barbecue sauce recipe

I’ve always been a fan of Eastern NC barbecue sauce, and I’m excited to share my favorite recipe with you. This tangy and slightly sweet sauce is a staple in the Carolinas, and for good reason – it’s incredibly versatile and pairs perfectly with grilled meats, whether it’s pork, chicken, or beef. Growing up, my family would often gather at my grandparents’ house for Sunday dinner, and their barbecue sauce was always the star of the show.

It’s a recipe that’s been passed down through generations, and I’m happy to be a part of that tradition. One of the things I love most about this sauce is its simplicity – just a few basic ingredients come together to create something truly special. And the best part?

It’s ridiculously easy to make at home. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dish for your next BBQ bash, this Eastern NC barbecue sauce recipe is sure to become a favorite. I’ve also found that it’s incredibly healthy – just think about all those antioxidants from the vinegar and spices!

My kids adore helping me mix it up in the kitchen, too – they love getting their hands dirty and watching the flavors come together. It’s really become a family affair over the years. Plus, this sauce freezes beautifully, so feel free to make a big batch and stash it away for later use.

Trust me when I say this: once you try it, you’ll be hooked for life!

Eastern NC Barbecue Sauce

Eastern NC Barbecue Sauce

4.9 from 1814 votes

Eastern North Carolina barbecue sauce is a thin, vinegar-based sauce with a sharp tang and a hint of heat. It is traditionally used as a mop or finishing sauce for pulled pork.

Prep Time5 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time20 mins
Servings: 16Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 15 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Sauce

2 cups apple cider vinegar
1 cup water
1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Texas Pete)
1 tablespoon red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt

👨‍🍳Directions

1Combine the apple cider vinegar, water, brown sugar, ketchup, hot sauce, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and salt in a medium saucepan.
2Whisk until the brown sugar is mostly dissolved.
3Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
4Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld and the sauce slightly thickens.
5Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the sauce cool completely to room temperature.
6The sauce will thin as it cools.
7Transfer to a jar or bottle, seal, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before using to allow the flavors to fully develop.

🔧Equipment

Medium saucepan
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: 150mg🌾Total Carbs: 3g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 0g

📝Notes

For a spicier sauce, increase the hot sauce or red pepper flakes. This sauce keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 2 months. Use it to baste pork shoulder during smoking or as a finishing sauce for pulled pork.

Watch Video Of How Eastern NC Barbecue Sauce Works

One thing I’ve learned over the years is that good food brings people together – and this Eastern NC barbecue sauce is no exception! Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just need a quick dinner solution, this recipe never fails to impress.

The best part? It’s so easy to make ahead of time and stash away in your fridge or freezer for later use.

In fact, my family has grown so fond of it that we often have our own mini-BBQs at home just so we can enjoy this deliciousness together.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Eastern NC Barbecue Sauce

Q: What makes Eastern NC barbecue sauce so unique?

A: Unlike other regional styles, Eastern NC barbecue sauce relies on a combination of ketchup, vinegar, and spices to create its distinctive flavor profile.

Q: Can I customize this recipe with different spice levels?

A: Absolutely – if you prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether. Conversely, if you like things spicy hot, add more cayenne or even try using hot sauce!

Q: How do I store this sauce long-term?

A: To ensure maximum shelf life, store your finished sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 6 months or freeze it for up to 1 year.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegans/vegetarians?

A: Yes – simply substitute out any animal-derived ingredients (such as Worcestershire sauce) with plant-based alternatives.

Q: Can I use this sauce on other types of food besides barbecue?

A: Of course! Try using it as a marinade for chicken or beef before grilling; as an added kick in soups like chili or stews; or even as a dipping sauce for fries or onion rings.

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