What Is The Best Sauce For Pulled Pork?

When it comes to pulled pork, the right sauce can make all the difference. Whether you're a fan of tangy, sweet, spicy, or smoky flavors, there's a perfect sauce out there to complement your pulled pork. In this article, we'll explore some of the best sauces for pulled pork and how to use them to take your dish to the next level.

Traditional BBQ Sauce

Traditional BBQ sauce is a classic choice for pulled pork. Its sweet and tangy flavor profile pairs perfectly with the rich, savory taste of the pork. You can use a store-bought BBQ sauce or make your own at home. Here's a simple recipe for homemade BBQ sauce:

• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons molasses
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Simply combine all the ingredients in a saucepan and simmer over low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once the sauce has thickened slightly, it's ready to be drizzled over your pulled pork.

Carolina Gold Sauce

If you're a fan of mustard-based sauces, Carolina Gold sauce is the perfect choice for your pulled pork. This tangy and slightly spicy sauce is a staple in South Carolina BBQ and adds a unique flavor to the pork. Here's a quick recipe to make your own Carolina Gold sauce:

• 1 cup yellow mustard
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/3 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste

Whisk all the ingredients together in a bowl until well combined. This sauce is best when allowed to sit in the refrigerator for a few hours to let the flavors meld together.

Spicy Chipotle Sauce

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, spicy chipotle sauce is an excellent choice for pulled pork. The smoky flavor of the chipotle peppers adds depth to the sauce, while the heat gives the pork a kick. Here's a simple recipe for homemade spicy chipotle sauce:

• 3-4 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

In a blender or food processor, combine the chipotle peppers, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder. Blend until smooth, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

Tangy Vinegar Sauce

Tangy vinegar sauce is a popular choice in North Carolina BBQ and is known for its sharp, tangy flavor. This thin, vinegar-based sauce is perfect for adding moisture and flavor to pulled pork without overpowering the natural taste of the meat. Here's a quick recipe for tangy vinegar sauce:

• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

Simply whisk all the ingredients together in a bowl until the sugar has dissolved. This sauce can be used to dress the pulled pork or served on the side for dipping.

Conclusion

When it comes to pulled pork, the best sauce is ultimately a matter of personal preference. Whether you prefer the sweetness of traditional BBQ sauce, the tanginess of Carolina Gold sauce, the heat of spicy chipotle sauce, or the sharpness of tangy vinegar sauce, there's a perfect sauce out there for everyone. Experiment with different flavors and find the sauce that takes your pulled pork to the next level.