eastern north carolina barbecue sauce recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
eastern north carolina barbecue sauce recipe
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The Best eastern north carolina barbecue sauce recipe

I’ve been making Eastern North Carolina-style barbecue sauce for years, and it’s become a staple in our household. The recipe originated from the pit-cooking traditions of the state’s coastal region, where whole hog barbecues were a common sight.

The sauce is a simple yet flavorful combination of vinegar, water, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. It’s tangy and slightly spicy, with a deep, rich flavor that’s perfect for slathering on pork shoulders or chicken thighs.

My family loves it when I serve this sauce with grilled meats, and it’s become a favorite at our family gatherings. I like that this recipe is easy to make in large batches, so I can have some on hand for whenever we need it.

Plus, the health benefits of using fewer ingredients and less added sugar are a bonus in my book.

Eastern North Carolina Barbecue Sauce

Eastern North Carolina Barbecue Sauce

4.6 from 1111 votes

A thin, tangy vinegar-based sauce with a sharp kick from black pepper and a hint of heat from red pepper flakes. This classic sauce is essential for pulled pork and whole hog barbecue in the Eastern North Carolina tradition.

Prep Time5 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time20 mins
Servings: 24Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 15 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Sauce

2 cups apple cider vinegar
1 cup distilled white vinegar
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon salt
1 tablespoon black pepper
1 tablespoon red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1Combine the apple cider vinegar, distilled white vinegar, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and cayenne pepper in a medium saucepan.
2Whisk until the brown sugar and salt begin to dissolve.
3Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes.
4Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld and the sauce thickens slightly.
5Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the sauce to cool completely to room temperature, about 20 minutes.
6Pour the sauce through a fine-mesh strainer into a clean glass jar or bottle to remove the red pepper flakes if a smoother texture is desired.

🔧Equipment

Medium saucepan
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Glass jar or bottle for storage

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 15 kcal🧈Total Fat: 0g💛Saturated Fat: 0g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 290mg🌾Total Carbs: 3g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 0g

📝Notes

Store the sauce in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Shake well before each use. For a milder sauce, reduce the red pepper flakes and cayenne pepper by half.

Watch Video Of How Eastern North Carolina Barbecue Sauce Works

This Eastern North Carolina-style barbecue sauce recipe has become a staple in our household. It’s easy to make in large batches and can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

You can also freeze it for up to 6 months. When reheating leftovers, simply place them in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

This sauce is perfect for slathering on pork shoulders or chicken thighs before grilling or roasting.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Eastern North Carolina Barbecue Sauce

Q: What is the difference between Eastern North Carolina-style barbecue sauce and other regional barbecue sauces?

This sauce is distinct from other regional styles due to its use of vinegar as a primary ingredient. Vinegar gives it a tangy flavor that complements the smoky flavor of grilled meats.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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