Eastern North Carolina BBQ Sauce

Eastern North Carolina BBQ Sauce is a tangy and vinegar-based sauce that has been a staple in the region for centuries. Known for its distinctive flavor and thin consistency, this sauce is a favorite among barbecue enthusiasts and is often used to marinate, baste, and dip a variety of meats, particularly pork. The sauce is a key component of the Eastern North Carolina BBQ tradition and is an essential element of the region's culinary heritage.

Eastern North Carolina BBQ Sauce
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Prep Time:

5 mins

Additional Time:

1 day

Total Time:

1 day 5 mins

Servings:

32

Yield:

2 cups

Ingredients

Eastern North Carolina BBQ Sauce
1 cup white vinegar
1 cup cider vinegar
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
1 tablespoon hot pepper sauce (e.g. Tabasco™), or to taste
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions

Eastern North Carolina BBQ Sauce

Step 1

Combine white vinegar, cider vinegar, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, hot pepper sauce, salt, and pepper in a jar or bottle with a tight-fitting lid; shake well.

Step 2

Refrigerate sauce, shaking occasionally, until flavors blend, 1 to 2 days. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 months.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

4

Calories

1g

Carbs

Complement

The sauce is typically made with a combination of vinegar, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and sometimes other spices such as cayenne and mustard. It is known for its sharp and pungent taste, which is a result of the high vinegar content. The sauce is often used as a finishing touch on slow-cooked, smoked meats, adding a burst of flavor and a unique tanginess that sets it apart from other barbecue sauces. Eastern North Carolina BBQ Sauce is a testament to the region's rich culinary history and is a beloved condiment that adds a distinct flavor to any barbecue dish.