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A clear glass jar filled with a reddish-brown Carolina Vinegar BBQ Sauce, showing specks of spices, on a light surface.
Maryam

Classic Carolina Vinegar BBQ Sauce

This authentic Carolina Vinegar BBQ Sauce is a zesty, tangy, and spicy condiment perfect for pulled pork, chicken, or ribs. Its thin consistency and bold flavor make it a true Southern staple.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 16 servings (2 tbsp each)
Course: Condiment, Sauce, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, BBQ, Southern
Calories: 20
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups Apple Cider Vinegar high-quality
  • 1/2 cup Water
  • 1/4 cup Brown Sugar packed, light or dark
  • 2 tsp Salt kosher or sea salt
  • 2 tsp Black Pepper freshly ground preferred
  • 1 tsp Red Pepper Flakes or more, to taste
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Onion Powder
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
  • 1 tbsp Hot Sauce e.g., Tabasco or Texas Pete, optional for extra kick

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Airtight jar or bottle

Method
 

Combine Ingredients
  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, water, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce (if using).
Simmer the Sauce
  1. Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, whisking occasionally to dissolve the sugar and salt. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low.
  2. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering time allows the flavors to meld and deepen.
Cool and Store
  1. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the sauce cool completely to room temperature. The sauce will become slightly more flavorful as it cools.
  2. Once cooled, transfer the Carolina Vinegar BBQ Sauce to an airtight jar or bottle. Store in the refrigerator.

Notes

This sauce is excellent on pulled pork, grilled chicken, or even as a marinade. For an extra smoky flavor, add 1/4 teaspoon of liquid smoke during the simmering process. The sauce will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks. Shake well before each use, as the spices may settle.