US 31 BBQ Sauce Recipe is a tangy and sweet American barbecue sauce made with cabbage, relish, vinegar, and spices, commonly served with pulled pork or sandwiches.
This US 31 BBQ Sauce Recipe reflects a classic American barbecue tradition with rich and hearty flavor. The taste feels deeply delicious and satisfying alongside grilled meats.
I decided to make this recipe after seeing it prepared at a traditional roadside kitchen, which inspired me to recreate it at home. I will now explain each step clearly from start to finish.
US 31 BBQ Sauce Recipe
The US 31 BBQ Sauce Recipe is best known for its unique balance of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors, combining a traditional barbecue sauce with finely chopped vegetables.
Its main speciality lies in the generous use of cabbage, sweet pickle relish, mustard, and vinegar, which gives it a signature slaw style texture rather than a smooth sauce.
This regional American recipe is especially popular as a pulled pork topping, where it adds crunch, brightness, and acidity that cuts through rich meats.
Unlike typical BBQ sauces, it delivers freshness and bold flavor in every bite.
How To Prepare US 31 BBQ Sauce Recipe?
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Course: BBQ Condiment
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American (Southern style BBQ)
Yield: 60 servings
Main Kitchen Utensils
- Large heavy bottom pot or stockpot
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 2,270 g finely shredded cabbage
- 115 g chopped pimentos (small jar, drained)
- 240 g ketchup
- 70 g sugar
- 2 g chili powder
- 450 g chopped onions
- 1 g garlic powder
- 3 g salt and black pepper
- 120 g water
- 950 g sweet pickle relish
- 240 g prepared yellow mustard
- 240 g white vinegar
- 15 g Worcestershire sauce
How To Make US 31 BBQ Sauce Recipe?
Step 1: Make The Sauce Base
Set a large pot over medium heat. Add the ketchup, sugar, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, water, mustard, and vinegar. Stir until everything is well combined and smooth.
Step 2: Add The Vegetables
Mix in the sweet pickle relish, shredded cabbage, chopped onions, and pimentos. Stir until the vegetables are evenly coated in the sauce.
Step 3: Let It Simmer
Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes. Stir now and then, allowing the cabbage to soften and the flavours to come together.
Step 4: Finish And Serve
Remove from the heat and let it cool slightly. Serve warm or cold as a barbecue sauce or slaw style topping for pulled pork, BBQ sandwiches, grilled chicken, or ribs.
Nutrition Facts Of US 31 BBQ Sauce Recipe
| Nutrition | Amounts |
|---|---|
| Calories | 45 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Sugars | 8 g |
| Protein | 0.8 g |
| Fat | 0.2 g |
| Fiber | 1.2 g |
| Sodium | 180 mg |
Ways To Use It
1. Pulled Pork Topping
Spoon the sauce generously over slow cooked pulled pork to add tangy sweetness and a signature Southern style flavor.
2. Burger And Sandwich Spread
Use it as a spread on burgers, hot dogs, or barbecue sandwiches to bring moisture and bold taste to every bite.
3. Grilled Meat Glaze
Brush the sauce onto chicken, ribs, or pork during the final minutes of grilling to create a glossy, flavorful coating.
4. Side Dish Enhancer
Serve it alongside coleslaw, fried potatoes, or baked beans to add contrast and depth to classic barbecue sides.
5. Dipping Sauce
Offer it as a dip for fried chicken, onion rings, or roasted vegetables for a sweet and tangy finish.
Secrets To Perfect US 31 BBQ Sauce Recipe
➢ Balance sweetness and acidity carefully by tasting as it cooks, keeping sugar and vinegar in harmony.
➢ Drain pickle relish thoroughly to prevent excess liquid and achieve the right sauce thickness.
➢ Simmer slowly over low heat so cabbage softens evenly and flavors blend fully.
➢ Stir frequently to avoid sticking and ensure consistent texture throughout the sauce.
➢ Allow the sauce to cool before serving so flavors settle and deepen naturally.
Special Health Benefits
US 31 BBQ Sauce Recipe offers several health benefits due to its combination of vegetables and spices. Cabbage provides fiber and antioxidants that support digestive health and reduce inflammation.
Onions and garlic powder contribute vitamins and compounds that may boost immunity and improve heart health.
Vinegar can help regulate blood sugar levels, while mustard adds trace minerals and antioxidants. The use of sweet pickle relish introduces small amounts of probiotics, promoting gut health.
Overall, this sauce delivers flavor alongside nutrients that support digestion, immune function, and cardiovascular wellness.
Can You Eat US 31 BBQ Sauce Recipe every day?
US 31 BBQ Sauce Recipe can be enjoyed regularly in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Its combination of sugar, vinegar, and spices adds strong flavor to meals, enhancing sandwiches, meats, and salads.
Daily use in small amounts can bring variety and taste to dishes without overwhelming nutritional balance.
Large quantities every day may add extra sugar and sodium, so portion control is important. Enjoying this sauce thoughtfully allows it to remain a delicious, satisfying addition to meals.
Why We Love This US 31 BBQ Sauce Recipe?
We love this US 31 BBQ Sauce Recipe because it brings a bold balance of sweet and tangy flavors that feel comforting and familiar.
The combination of cabbage, relish, vinegar, and spices creates a rich texture and satisfying taste. This recipe feels special due to its traditional roadside barbecue roots and homemade character.
The sauce pairs beautifully with barbecue dishes and sandwiches, delivering a hearty flavor that feels enjoyable, memorable, and deeply satisfying from the first bite.
How To Store Leftovers?
Store leftover US 31 BBQ Sauce Recipe in clean, airtight containers after it has fully cooled. Keep refrigerated at or below 4°C to maintain flavor and texture.
Properly stored sauce stays fresh for up to 7 days. For longer storage, portion the sauce into freezer safe containers, leaving space for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and stir well before reheating or serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Sauce Ahead Of Time?
Yes, it can be prepared a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Flavours often improve after sitting.
Can I Adjust The Sweetness?
Absolutely. You can reduce or increase sugar to match your taste preference.
Is This Sauce Spicy?
It has a mild tangy heat from chili powder but is not overly spicy.
Can I Use This Sauce For Grilling?
Yes, it works well as a topping or a glaze during grilling.
Can I Make A Smooth Version?
Yes, blending the sauce after cooking will give it a smoother consistency.
Conclusion
My experience making US 31 BBQ Sauce Recipe was easy, enjoyable, and truly successful. The flavours came together beautifully and created a delicious result that everyone appreciated.
I hope this US 31 BBQ Sauce Recipe inspires you to try making it at home without hesitation. The process is simple and rewarding.
Make it soon, enjoy the taste, and share how delicious it feels after preparing and serving this classic barbecue sauce for family and friends today.
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US 31 BBQ Sauce Recipe
Equipment
- Large heavy bottom pot or stockpot
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 2,270 g finely shredded cabbage
- 115 g chopped pimentos small jar, drained
- 240 g ketchup
- 70 g sugar
- 2 g chili powder
- 450 g chopped onions
- 1 g garlic powder
- 3 g salt and black pepper
- 120 g water
- 950 g sweet pickle relish
- 240 g prepared yellow mustard
- 240 g white vinegar
- 15 g Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
Step 1: Make The Sauce Base
- Set a large pot over medium heat. Add the ketchup, sugar, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, water, mustard, and vinegar. Stir until everything is well combined and smooth.
Step 2: Add The Vegetables
- Mix in the sweet pickle relish, shredded cabbage, chopped onions, and pimentos. Stir until the vegetables are evenly coated in the sauce.
Step 3: Let It Simmer
- Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes. Stir now and then, allowing the cabbage to soften and the flavours to come together.
Step 4: Finish And Serve
- Remove from the heat and let it cool slightly. Serve warm or cold as a barbecue sauce or slaw style topping for pulled pork, BBQ sandwiches, grilled chicken, or ribs.
Notes
Nutrition Facts Of US 31 BBQ Sauce Recipe
Calories: 45 kcal | Carbohydrates: 10 g | Sugars: 8 g | Protein: 0.8 g | Fat: 0.2 g | Fiber: 1.2 g | Sodium: 180 mgHi, I’m Samia! I’ve spent the past five years creating recipes that are both delicious and unique. Cooking is my passion, and I love exploring different cuisines, blending flavors, and turning everyday meals into something memorable. From quick weeknight dinners to festive feasts, I aim to make every dish special. I’d love for you to join me on this culinary journey together we’ll explore simple, easy-to-follow recipes and tips that make cooking fun, inspiring, and full of joy!