Taste the smoky flavors of Eastern North Carolina with our authentic barbecue sauce recipe. Perfect for ribs, brisket, & more! #EasternNCBarbecue #BBQ Sauce
- **Eastern North Carolina Barbecue Sauce Ingredients:**
- Tomato Paste (for a rich, concentrated flavor)
- Ketchup (to add sweetness and depth of color)
- Molasses (essential for traditional Eastern NC taste and thickness)
- Apple Cider Vinegar (for tanginess and preservation)
- Brown Sugar (provides natural sweetness and caramel-like undertones)
- Worcestershire Sauce (adds umami flavor without salt)
- Garlic Powder (for a burst of garlic aroma and flavor)
- Paprika (both for color and subtle smokiness)
- Salt (to enhance other flavors, though used sparingly in authentic recipes)
- Black Pepper (for a slight kick and depth of flavor)
- Hot Sauce (optional but recommended for heat; consider using Frank's RedHot or similar)
- Onions (ground or finely chopped for additional sweetness and texture)
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### Eastern North Carolina Barbecue Sauce Recipe: A Time-Honored Tradition
Eastern North Carolina barbecue is renowned for its simplicity and depth of flavor. The classic sauce is a must-have to complement the tender, smoky meat. Here’s how to create your own authentic Eastern North Carolina-style barbeque sauce.
#### Ingredients:
- 2 cups ketchup
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup white distilled vinegar
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
#### Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Sauce Base:**
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and white distilled vinegar.
- Add sugar to taste for balance between sweet and tangy flavors.
2. **Enhance Flavor with Seasonings:**
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce and mustard to enrich the flavor profile.
- Season with salt and black pepper according to your preference. Taste test regularly as you add ingredients.
3. **Mix Ingredients Together:**
- Whisk all ingredients thoroughly until well combined and smooth.
- If the mixture seems too thick, thin it out slightly by adding a little water or more vinegar.
4. **Simmer for Richness (Optional):**
- For deeper flavors, pour the sauce into a small pot and simmer over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
5. **Cool Down:**
- Once cooled, store your Eastern North Carolina barbecue sauce in an airtight container.
- Keep refrigerated and use within two weeks.
#### Tips for Perfecting Your Sauce:
- **Consistency:** Adjust the ratio of ketchup to vinegar based on your desired consistency. Ketchup is naturally thicker than vinegars.
- **Sweetness Balance:** Eastern NC sauce has a slight sweetness, but it should not overpower the tanginess. Taste and adjust sugar as needed.
- **Storage:** Always keep your homemade barbecue sauce refrigerated after opening.
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By following these detailed steps, you can create a classic Eastern North Carolina barbeque sauce that perfectly complements the rich flavors of your smoked meats. Enjoy the satisfaction of crafting your own batch and adding a touch of regional flair to your culinary adventures!