vinegar barbecue sauce recipe
The Best vinegar barbecue sauce recipe
I’ve always been a fan of vinegar-based barbecue sauces, and this recipe is one of my go-tos when I want to add a tangy twist to my grilled meats. The combination of apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and spices creates a rich, complex flavor profile that’s perfect for everyday meals or special occasions. My family loves it when I serve this sauce with slow-cooked ribs or chicken, and it’s also great as a marinade for steak or pork chops.
One of the things I appreciate most about this recipe is how easy it is to make – just mix all the ingredients together in a bowl and refrigerate until ready to use. Plus, it’s relatively healthy compared to many commercial barbecue sauces, with no high-fructose corn syrup or artificial preservatives. Over the years, I’ve experimented with various tweaks to this recipe, but the core ingredients and method remain the same.
My kids have grown up on this sauce, and they always request it when we’re firing up the grill. In fact, I’ve even started serving it as a dipping sauce for fries or veggies – it’s that good! Whether you’re planning a backyard BBQ or just need a quick weeknight dinner solution, this vinegar barbecue sauce recipe is sure to become a staple in your household.
The technique behind making this sauce is straightforward: simply combine all the ingredients in a bowl and stir until well combined. Then, refrigerate until ready to use. It’s as simple as that!
The result is a deep, velvety sauce that coats your tongue with its tangy goodness. And the best part? This recipe makes about two cups of sauce, which is plenty for four to six servings – depending on how generously you apply it to your grilled meats.

Vinegar Barbecue Sauce
A tangy, thin vinegar-based barbecue sauce popular in the Carolinas. It is perfect for pulled pork or grilled chicken, adding a bright, acidic kick.
🥘Ingredients
For the Sauce
👨🍳Directions
🔧Equipment
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Vinegar Barbecue Sauce Works
This vinegar barbecue sauce recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just need a quick weeknight dinner solution. It’s perfect for serving at family gatherings or potlucks because everyone loves its tangy flavor.
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how versatile it is: you can use it as a marinade, a dipping sauce, or even as a finishing touch for grilled meats. And don’t forget about storage – simply refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Vinegar Barbecue Sauce
Q1: What’s the difference between apple cider vinegar and white vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar has a richer flavor profile than white vinegar due to its production process, which involves fermenting apple cider rather than distilled white vinegar.
Q2: Can I use this sauce as a marinade?
Yes, you can use this sauce as a marinade by mixing it with olive oil and applying it directly to your meat before grilling.
Q3: Is this sauce gluten-free?
The ingredients listed in this recipe are gluten-free; however, be sure to check the labels of any store-bought condiments used in the recipe.
Q4: How long does the sauce keep in the refrigerator?
This sauce will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Q5: Can I adjust the level of spiciness in the sauce?
Yes, you can adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less hot sauce or red pepper flakes according to your taste preferences.