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Tangy Carolina BBQ Sauce Recipe

Tangy Carolina BBQ Sauce Recipe


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4.7 from 35 reviews

  • Total Time: 12 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Tangy Carolina BBQ Sauce brings Southern comfort straight to your grill, infusing classic pulled pork and rigged meats with rich vinegar-based flavors. Balanced between sharp and sweet, this sauce delivers authentic regional zest you can’t resist.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 cup apple cider vinegar
  • ¼ cup yellow mustard
  • ¼ cup ketchup

Sweeteners:

  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon honey

Spices and Seasonings:

  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Combine apple cider vinegar, mustard, ketchup, brown sugar, and honey in a medium saucepan, creating a vibrant base for the classic Carolina BBQ sauce.
  2. Enhance the flavor profile by whisking in Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and garlic powder until thoroughly blended.
  3. Position the saucepan over medium heat, allowing the mixture to gradually warm and meld together.
  4. Gently coax the ingredients into a soft simmer, stirring periodically to prevent scorching and ensure even distribution of flavors.
  5. Maintain the low bubble for 5-7 minutes, watching as the sugar dissolves and the sauce transforms into a slightly more viscous consistency.
  6. Carefully remove the saucepan from the heat source, letting the sauce rest and cool for a few moments.
  7. Perform a taste test, adjusting the flavor balance by introducing additional honey for sweetness or vinegar for tanginess as desired.
  8. Transfer the finished sauce to a clean, sealed container for refrigeration, where it will maintain its robust flavor for up to two weeks.
  9. Unleash the authentic Carolina BBQ experience by generously drizzling the sauce over pulled pork, succulent ribs, grilled chicken, or tender brisket.

Notes

  • Swap apple cider vinegar for white vinegar if needed, maintaining the tangy Carolina-style profile.
  • Balance sweetness by adjusting brown sugar and honey ratios to match personal taste preferences.
  • Create a spicier version by adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra kick.
  • Transform into a gluten-free recipe by using certified gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and checking ketchup ingredients.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5-7 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 50
  • Sugar: 10 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 0 g
  • Saturated Fat: 0 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 0 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg