In the smoky haze of Southern barbecue pits, there’s a sauce that reigns supreme, carrying with it the essence of a culinary tradition steeped in flavor and history: Carolina BBQ Sauce.
Born in the heart of the Carolinas, this tangy elixir is a testament to the region’s passion for all things barbecue.
With its roots tracing back generations, this BBQ Sauce embodies the perfect balance of vinegar, spice, and a hint of sweetness, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on the palate.
Join me on a journey through the winding backroads of Southern cuisine as I uncover the secrets behind this iconic sauce, where every spoonful tells a story of slow-cooked perfection and Southern hospitality.
How To Make Carolina BBQ Sauce?
Preparation Times: 5 minutes
Cooking Times: 20 minutes
Course: Condiment
Cuisine: American
Yields: Approximately 2 cups
Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Stirring spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
Step-1. Combine Ingredients
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine apple cider vinegar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, molasses, hot sauce, garlic powder, yellow mustard, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
Step-2. Cook
Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
Step-3. Adjust Consistency
If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little water to reach your desired consistency.
Step-4. Taste and Adjust
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or hot sauce according to your preference.
Nutrition Facts Of Carolina BBQ Sauce
Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
| Nutrition | Amounts |
|---|---|
| Calories | 54 |
| Total Fat | 0.1g |
| Sodium | 337mg |
| Sugars | 11.8g |
| Protein | 0.4g |
Serving Suggestions
☸ Use as a marinade for grilled chicken, pork ribs, or beef brisket.
☸ Brush onto grilled vegetables for added flavor.
☸ Serve as a dipping sauce for chicken tenders or sweet potato fries.
Tips and Variations
★ For a spicier sauce, increase the amount of hot sauce or add additional crushed red pepper flakes.
★ Experiment with different types of vinegar for a unique flavor profile.
★ Store leftover sauce in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
SPECIAL NOTE
Feel free to adjust the ingredients according to your taste preferences.
Health Benefits Of Carolina BBQ Sauce
☸ Contains antioxidants from ingredients like garlic powder and smoked paprika.
☸ Can be customized to suit dietary preferences, such as reducing sugar content or using low-sodium ingredients.
FAQS
Can I use this sauce as a marinade?
Yes, this BBQ sauce doubles as a flavorful marinade for meats such as chicken or pork.
How long will the sauce keep in the refrigerator?
Stored in an airtight container, this BBQ sauce can last for up to two weeks in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze this BBQ sauce?
Yes, you can freeze the sauce for longer storage. Be sure to use a freezer-safe container and thaw it in the refrigerator before use.
Is this sauce suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it does not contain any meat products.
Conclusion
Homemade Carolina BBQ sauce is a game-changer for any barbecue enthusiast.
With its perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and smoky flavors, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Give this recipe a try and get ready to impress your friends and family at your next cookout.
Carolina BBQ Sauce
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Stirring spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce such as Tabasco
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine apple cider vinegar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, molasses, hot sauce, garlic powder, yellow mustard, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
- Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
- If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little water to reach your desired consistency.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or hot sauce according to your preference.
Notes
Welcome to Arora’s Sauce Recipe, where every drop tells a story of tradition, innovation, and a boundless love for culinary arts. My name is Brazen, and I am the founder and chief sauce creator at Arora’s Kitchen. Born into a family with a rich heritage of culinary arts, I grew up surrounded by the aromas of spices and the sounds of simmering pots, which ignited my passion for cooking from a young age.
Inspired by generations of culinary expertise, I embarked on a professional quest to capture these fleeting aromas and flavors in bottles of sauce that could bring a gourmet experience to every meal.
As the founder of Arora’s Sauce Recipe, my mission is to inspire your culinary adventures with the finest sauces. Whether you’re a professional chef or a home cook, our sauces are crafted to elevate your cooking with every spoonful.
Thank you for choosing Arora’s Sauce Recipe. Here’s to a journey filled with flavor, passion, and unforgettable meals.