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+ servings

Carolina-Style Vinegar Based BBQ Sauce

This authentic Southern vinegar based BBQ sauce combines the perfect balance of tanginess from apple cider vinegar with just the right amount of sweetness from brown sugar, all kicked up with red pepper flakes and cayenne. Unlike thick, tomato-based sauces, this thin, tangy sauce is perfect for basting during grilling or adding moisture and flavor to pulled pork, ribs, or chicken.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 11

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups apple cider vinegar
  • 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper optional
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder optional

Method
 

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the apple cider vinegar and brown sugar. Stir vigorously until the sugar begins to dissolve.
  2. Add the kosher salt, red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, and any optional ingredients if using.
  3. Whisk everything together until well combined and the sugar is mostly dissolved.
  4. Transfer the mixture to a glass jar or bottle with a tight-fitting lid.
  5. Allow the sauce to sit at room temperature for 4-8 hours to let the flavors meld and develop.
  6. Shake well before using. For best results, refrigerate overnight before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 2gCalories: 11kcalCarbohydrates: 2gSodium: 699mgSugar: 1g
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