Bring Bold Flavor Home with This Tangy Carolina BBQ Sauce Recipe!

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When it comes to barbecue, few flavors compare to the punchy, tangy magic of Carolina BBQ sauce. Known for its vibrant combination of apple cider vinegar, mustard, and just the right touch of sweetness, this sauce elevates any dish it's paired with. Whether you're grilling ribs, cooking chicken, or preparing a vegetarian-friendly pulled jackfruit, this Tangy Carolina BBQ Sauce will bring an explosion of flavor to your table.

Carolina BBQ sauce is famous for its balance of tang and sweetness, offering a lighter, fresher take on traditional BBQ flavors. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of simmering, you can whip up this homemade sauce that’ll make your meals taste as if they’re fresh off a Southern grill. Perfect for slathering, drizzling, or dipping, this recipe brings out the best in any barbecue setting.

Recipe: Tangy Carolina BBQ Sauce

Ingredients:

• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 cup ketchup
• ½ cup brown sugar (substitute coconut sugar for a unique twist)
• ⅓ cup yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon chili powder (use smoked paprika for a richer flavor)
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• Dash of Worcestershire sauce (substitute with soy sauce for a nonalcoholic option)

Directions:

1. Combine all the ingredients in a medium saucepan over low heat.
2. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth, then increase the heat to high and bring it to a boil.
3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and allow the sauce to simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring regularly until it thickens. Remember, it will thicken more as it cools.
4. Remove the sauce from heat and let it cool slightly.
5. Transfer the sauce to a one-pint mason jar or any airtight container.
6. Store your Tangy Carolina BBQ Sauce in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

For an extra depth of flavor, try simmering the sauce a little longer to let the ingredients meld even further. If you’re in the mood for heat, add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes to create a spicier version.

This quick and easy recipe is a surefire way to make your next barbecue meal unforgettable. The combination of apple cider vinegar and mustard gives it a classic Carolina twang, while the brown sugar provides just enough sweetness to balance out the acidity. A dash of Worcestershire or soy sauce rounds out the sauce, making it both savory and full-bodied.

This Tangy Carolina BBQ Sauce is a must-have for anyone looking to bring a little bit of Southern charm to their cooking. Store a batch in the fridge, and you’ll always be ready to add a flavorful twist to your favorite grilled meats, roasted veggies, or even sandwiches.

For more BBQ inspiration, check out this Carolina BBQ Guide.