Carolina Vinegar BBQ Sauce Recipe
Carolina Vinegar BBQ Sauce Recipe is a tangy, spicy, and slightly sweet sauce made with apple cider vinegar, spices, and a touch of sugar. It’s traditionally used on pulled pork and other smoked meats. Quick to prepare and easy to store, this sauce brings authentic Southern BBQ flavor to any meal.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or spoon
- Heat-safe jar or bottle for storage
- Funnel
Ingredients
- 2 cups apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup white vinegar optional, for extra tang
- 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1½ cups water
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce like Texas Pete or Frank’s
- 1/4 cup yellow mustard optional, for tang
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
Instructions
Combine The Ingredients:
- Pour the apple cider vinegar, white vinegar, water, and ketchup into a medium sized saucepan. Add in the brown sugar, red pepper flakes, black pepper, salt, and a few dashes of hot sauce.
Mix Well:
- Give everything a good stir or whisk until the sugar mostly dissolves and the mixture looks smooth.
Heat It Up:
- Place the pan over medium heat. Let the sauce slowly come to a gentle simmer don’t let it come to a hard boil. Stir it now and then as it heats up.
Let It Simmer:
- Keep it at a low simmer for about 8 to 10 minutes. This helps the flavour come together nicely. Avoid boiling too hard or cooking it too long.
Cool And Store:
- Take the pan off the heat and let the sauce cool down to room temperature. Once cooled, pour it into a clean jar or bottle with a tight lid. Store it in the fridge for up to a month. Give it a good shake before each use.