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Tangy Homemade Carolina-Style BBQ Sauce Recipe with Apple Cider Vinegar

carolina-style bbq sauce - featured image
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A tangy, vinegar-forward Carolina-style BBQ sauce with apple cider vinegar that balances sharp acidity, mild heat, and a hint of sweetness. Perfect for pulled pork, grilled chicken, and roasted vegetables.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (240 ml) apple cider vinegar
  • ½ cup (100 g) packed brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 teaspoon salt (kosher preferred)
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ⅓ cup (80 ml) water

Instructions

  1. Combine the vinegar and sugar: In a medium saucepan, pour 1 cup (240 ml) of apple cider vinegar and add ½ cup (100 g) packed brown sugar. Place over medium heat and whisk gently until the sugar dissolves completely, about 3-4 minutes.
  2. Add mustard and Worcestershire sauce: Stir in 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard and 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce. Keep whisking until well blended, roughly 1-2 minutes.
  3. Incorporate dry spices: Add 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Whisk thoroughly to combine all the flavors evenly.
  4. Thin the sauce: Pour in ⅓ cup (80 ml) water and stir well to adjust the sauce’s consistency. It should be pourable but not watery.
  5. Simmer gently: Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. Watch closely to avoid boiling over or burning.
  6. Cool and taste: Remove from heat and let the sauce cool for 10 minutes. Taste and tweak seasoning if needed.
  7. Store: Pour into a clean jar or container. Keep refrigerated for up to 2 weeks. Flavors deepen after resting overnight.

Notes

Use unfiltered apple cider vinegar for more depth. Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to control heat. Store in a glass container and refrigerate to maintain freshness. Sauce flavors improve after resting overnight. Can substitute white vinegar in a pinch. For gluten-free, check Worcestershire sauce label or substitute with tamari. Add smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a smoky twist. Use coconut sugar and vegan Worcestershire sauce for a vegan version.

Nutrition

Keywords: Carolina BBQ sauce, homemade BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar BBQ sauce, tangy BBQ sauce, Southern BBQ sauce, vinegar-based BBQ sauce

Find it online: https://cheerycrisp.com/tangy-homemade-carolina-style-bbq-sauce-recipe-with-apple-cider-vinegar/