Authentic North Carolina BBQ Sauce
North Carolina BBQ Sauce is the quintessential condiment for any grill master seeking to elevate their barbecue game. This sauce stands out with its perfect balance of tangy vinegar and sweet undertones, making it an ideal companion for grilled meats like chicken, pork, and ribs. It’s easy to whip up, requiring just a few pantry staples, making it accessible for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or enjoying a cozy weeknight dinner, this sauce adds a layer of flavor that will leave your guests asking for more. With the ability to customize heat levels and sweetness to your preference, this authentic North Carolina BBQ sauce is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar (preferably unfiltered)
- 1/2 cup ketchup (no high fructose corn syrup)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (light)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine apple cider vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and mustard powder.
- Stir gently until the sugar dissolves completely (3-5 minutes).
- Bring to a gentle simmer and stir occasionally for about 10-15 minutes until thickened slightly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning; add more hot sauce or sugar as desired.
- Remove from heat and cool before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 20
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg