Carolina-Style Vinegar Sauce
This Carolina-Style Vinegar Sauce is a tangy, bold condiment that embodies the essence of Eastern North Carolina barbecue. Unlike sweet sauces commonly found in Memphis or Kansas City, this sauce relies on the robust flavor of cider vinegar, perfectly balanced with a hint of brown sugar and spices. It’s traditionally used to enhance pulled pork, but it can also serve as a zesty mop for grilling meats or as a vibrant dressing for coleslaw. This versatile sauce packs a punch without the sweetness, making it a refreshing alternative for your next cookout. Plus, it keeps in the fridge for an extended period, allowing you to enjoy it anytime you desire.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
cider vinegar
1 cup (none)
brown sugar
1 tablespoon (none)
salt
1 teaspoon (to taste)
ground cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon (none)
ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon (none)
Instructions
1
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of cider vinegar and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar. Stir until the sugar has dissolved completely.
2
Add 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cayenne pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper to the mixture.
3
Whisk all the ingredients together until well blended.
4
Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or cayenne pepper if desired.
5
Transfer the sauce to a covered container and refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld.
6
Use the sauce generously to drizzle over pulled pork or as a mop for grilling.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Carolina-Style Vinegar Sauce?
It is a tangy, bold condiment that embodies the essence of Eastern North Carolina barbecue, focusing on vinegar rather than sweetness.
What is the primary ingredient in this sauce?
The main ingredient is cider vinegar, which provides a robust and tangy base.
How does this sauce differ from Memphis or Kansas City styles?
Unlike the thick, sweet tomato-based sauces of Memphis or Kansas City, this sauce is thin, vinegar-based, and savory with very little sweetness.
What meat is traditionally served with this sauce?
It is traditionally used to enhance pulled pork.
Can this sauce be used for grilling?
Yes, it serves as an excellent zesty mop for various grilling meats.
Is this sauce suitable for salads?
Yes, it can be used as a vibrant dressing for coleslaw.
How long should the sauce be refrigerated before use?
It should be refrigerated for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld properly.
What type of sugar is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for one tablespoon of brown sugar.
Is Carolina-Style Vinegar Sauce spicy?
Yes, it contains both ground cayenne pepper and ground black pepper for a zesty kick.
Can I adjust the heat level?
Yes, you can taste and adjust the seasoning by adding more cayenne pepper if desired.
Does this sauce need to be cooked?
No, this is a no-cook sauce made by whisking ingredients together in a mixing bowl.
How do I store the leftovers?
The sauce should be kept in a covered container in the refrigerator.
How long does this sauce stay fresh?
It keeps in the fridge for an extended period due to the high vinegar content.
Is this sauce considered healthy?
The recipe consists of vinegar and spices with minimal sugar and no fat, making it a lighter alternative to many BBQ sauces.
What kind of vinegar is best for this recipe?
Cider vinegar is recommended for its specific flavor profile.
What is the texture of this sauce?
It is a thin, liquid sauce rather than a thick or syrupy one.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 5 ingredients: cider vinegar, brown sugar, salt, cayenne pepper, and black pepper.
Does this sauce contain tomatoes?
No, Eastern North Carolina style vinegar sauce specifically excludes tomato products like ketchup.
Is the sauce gluten-free?
Based on the ingredients listed (vinegar, sugar, and spices), it is naturally gluten-free.
Can I use white sugar instead of brown sugar?
While brown sugar is specified for its flavor, white sugar could be used, though it will lack the slight molasses note.
Is the sauce vegan?
Yes, all ingredients listed are plant-based.
How much salt is used?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of salt, or to taste.
What is the first step in making the sauce?
The first step is to combine the cider vinegar and brown sugar in a bowl and stir until the sugar dissolves.
Can I use it as a marinade?
While primarily a finishing sauce or mop, its high acidity makes it a decent marinade for pork.
Why is it called 'Eastern' North Carolina style?
In North Carolina barbecue, the Eastern style is strictly vinegar and pepper-based, while Western style often includes a bit of tomato.
Can I add more black pepper?
Yes, you can adjust all seasonings, including black pepper, to your personal preference.
Is this sauce sweet?
It is not considered a sweet sauce; the small amount of sugar is only used to balance the vinegar's acidity.
Does it contain oil?
No, this recipe contains no oil or fats.
How do I serve it over pulled pork?
You should drizzle it generously over the meat just before serving.
Can I use this on chicken?
Yes, while traditional for pork, it works well as a tangy mop for grilled chicken.