Authentic Eastern North Carolina Vinegar-Based Barbecue Sauce
Dive into the vibrant culinary tradition of Eastern North Carolina with this tantalizing barbecue sauce. A staple at outdoor gatherings ranging from family reunions to community church suppers, this sauce captures the essence of southern cooking. Made with a balance of tangy apple cider vinegar and a kick of crushed hot red peppers, it provides a flavorful complement to slow-cooked pork. While this recipe offers a fantastic base, feel free to customize it to suit your taste preferences. Serve it as a basting sauce while barbecuing and as a zesty seasoning for chopped barbecue. Best of all, there's no cooking involved, making it both quick and simple to prepare!
8
Servings
N/A
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
Apple cider vinegar
2 quarts (None)
Crushed hot red peppers
2 ounces (None)
Salt
2 tablespoons (None)
Black pepper
1 tablespoon (Freshly ground is preferable)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the apple cider vinegar, crushed hot red peppers, salt, and black pepper.
2
Whisk the mixture thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended.
3
Transfer the sauce to an airtight container for easy storage.
4
Use the sauce to baste your pork while it's barbecuing, and drizzle over chopped barbecue just before serving.
5
This sauce can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for several days, ideal for spontaneous gatherings.
6
For long-term storage, consider refrigerating it, where it can last for several weeks.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Authentic Eastern North Carolina Vinegar-Based Barbecue Sauce?
It is a traditional Southern condiment made primarily from apple cider vinegar and spices, known for its tangy and spicy profile without the use of tomatoes or sugar.
Does this barbecue sauce require cooking?
No, this is a quick and simple no-cook recipe where the ingredients are simply whisked together in a bowl.
What are the main ingredients in this sauce?
The core ingredients are apple cider vinegar, crushed hot red peppers, salt, and black pepper.
How much vinegar is used in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 quarts of apple cider vinegar.
How should I store this barbecue sauce?
Store the sauce in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for several days or refrigerated for several weeks.
Is this sauce spicy?
Yes, it has a significant kick provided by 2 ounces of crushed hot red peppers.
Can I use this sauce for basting?
Yes, it is specifically designed to be used as a basting sauce while pork is barbecuing.
Is this barbecue sauce gluten-free?
Yes, based on the ingredients provided (vinegar and spices), it is naturally gluten-free.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
No, this authentic Eastern North Carolina style sauce contains no sugar.
Is this sauce keto-friendly?
Yes, it is ideal for a keto diet as it contains no sugar, fats, or significant carbohydrates.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
Can I use white vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar?
While apple cider vinegar provides the traditional flavor, white vinegar can be used, though it will result in a sharper, less complex taste.
What type of meat is this sauce best for?
It is traditionally served with slow-cooked pork, specifically pulled or chopped barbecue.
Does the sauce contain any oil or fat?
No, this is a fat-free sauce.
Should the black pepper be freshly ground?
Yes, freshly ground black pepper is preferable for the best flavor.
How do I mix the sauce?
Simply combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl and whisk thoroughly until they are well blended.
Can I use this sauce for chopped barbecue?
Yes, it is excellent as a zesty seasoning drizzled over chopped barbecue just before serving.
What is the consistency of this sauce?
This is a thin, watery sauce designed to penetrate the meat, rather than a thick, syrupy sauce.
How much salt is included in the recipe?
The recipe includes 2 tablespoons of salt.
Can I prepare this sauce in advance?
Yes, making it in advance allows the heat from the red peppers to infuse more deeply into the vinegar.
Is this sauce the same as Western North Carolina sauce?
No, Western North Carolina (Lexington style) sauce usually contains ketchup or tomato, while this Eastern style is strictly vinegar-based.
Can I adjust the heat level?
Yes, you can customize the amount of crushed hot red peppers to suit your personal preference.
What kind of salt should I use?
Standard table salt or kosher salt works well for this recipe.
Does this sauce need to be refrigerated immediately?
No, it is safe at room temperature for several days, though refrigeration is best for long-term storage.
Can I use this on chicken or ribs?
While traditional for pork, its tangy profile works well as a mop sauce for chicken and ribs too.
What is the serving size for this sauce?
The serving size is not specified but it is generally used as a condiment or basting liquid.
Is this a traditional recipe?
Yes, it is described as an authentic staple for Southern gatherings like church suppers and family reunions.
Does the sauce contain mustard?
No, there is no mustard in this authentic Eastern North Carolina recipe.
How much black pepper is required?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of black pepper.
Why is this sauce popular in Eastern North Carolina?
It is beloved for its ability to cut through the richness of slow-cooked pork with its bright acidity and spicy finish.