If you’ve never tried Alabama-style white barbecue sauce, you’re in for a treat! This sauce is like nothing you’ve ever had—it’s creamy, tangy, and just a little bit spicy. Think of it as the perfect balance between cool and zesty, with a richness that makes it so unique. It’s a total game-changer, especially when slathered over grilled chicken, ribs, or even veggies. Trust me, once you taste this sauce, you’ll wonder why you ever used regular barbecue sauce!
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Whether you’re grilling for a summer cookout, a weeknight dinner, or a backyard barbecue with friends, this white barbecue sauce is going to steal the show. Get ready to make your meals unforgettable!
Why You’ll Love Alabama-Style White Barbecue Sauce
This sauce isn’t just another condiment—it’s a flavor experience that will elevate your grilling game. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: You can drizzle it over chicken, pork, or even use it as a dipping sauce for fries or roasted vegetables. It’s also fantastic as a marinade!
Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. No need for expensive specialty items—just a few pantry staples and you’re good to go!
Quick and Easy: No long cooking times or complicated steps. Just mix it together, and you’re ready to start grilling.
Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone will want the recipe once they taste this unique and flavorful sauce. It’s rich and creamy with a zesty tang that pairs well with almost everything.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy, tangy Alabama-style white barbecue sauce:
- Mayonnaise: The base of the sauce. It gives it that creamy texture that sets it apart from traditional barbecue sauces.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds that signature tanginess and a bit of brightness to the sauce.
- Dijon Mustard: A little Dijon mustard gives the sauce a touch of sharpness and depth.
- Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice adds a zesty kick and balances the richness of the mayo.
- Garlic Powder: A must for that savory depth of flavor.
- Onion Powder: Complements the garlic with a sweet and savory note.
- Black Pepper: Just a pinch for some subtle heat.
- Cayenne Pepper (optional): For an added kick if you like a little heat.
- Salt: To taste, balancing out all the flavors.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s get that sauce ready to rock your next meal:
Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. If you want a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Whisk to Combine: Whisk everything together until smooth and creamy. The sauce should be thick, but still pourable.
Adjust to Taste: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning. Want more tang? Add a bit more vinegar or lemon juice. Craving more heat? A little extra cayenne pepper will do the trick!
Let It Rest: Cover and refrigerate the sauce for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. The wait is worth it for that extra depth of flavor.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve the sauce with grilled chicken, pork, or anything else you’d like to add a tangy, creamy punch to!
How to Serve Alabama-Style White Barbecue Sauce
This sauce is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Here are a few serving ideas:
Grilled Chicken: Slather it on grilled chicken for a tangy, creamy twist on your usual barbecue.
Pulled Pork: Add it to pulled pork sandwiches for a zesty surprise that will have everyone asking for more.
Grilled Vegetables: Use this sauce as a dip or drizzle it over grilled veggies like corn, zucchini, or bell peppers.
As a Dip: Serve it as a dip alongside fries, sweet potato fries, or roasted potato wedges.
Salads and Slaws: It’s also fantastic as a dressing for salads or slaw, adding a creamy tangy zing.
Additional Tips
- Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a little bit of water or extra vinegar until you reach your desired consistency.
- Make It Ahead: This sauce keeps well in the fridge for up to a week, so you can make it ahead of time for your next grilling session.
- Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s perfect for meal prep!
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use light mayonnaise instead of regular mayo?
A1: Yes, you can! Light mayo will work fine, but keep in mind it may alter the flavor and creaminess slightly.
Q2: Can I make this sauce without Dijon mustard?
A2: Absolutely! You can substitute it with yellow mustard, though Dijon adds a nice sharpness. Alternatively, you could omit it entirely if you prefer.
Q3: How long can I store this sauce?
A3: This sauce will keep in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container!
Q4: Can I use this sauce on sandwiches?
A4: Yes, absolutely! It’s great as a spread on sandwiches or wraps, especially with grilled meats.
Q5: Is this sauce spicy?
A5: It’s mildly spicy, thanks to the black pepper and cayenne (if you use it). If you want a milder version, just leave out the cayenne!
Q6: Can I make this sauce vegan?
A6: Yes, simply swap out the mayonnaise for a vegan version, and you’ll have a vegan-friendly Alabama-style white sauce!
Q7: Can I use this sauce as a marinade?
A7: Definitely! It makes an excellent marinade for chicken, pork, or even tofu. Just marinate for a few hours before grilling.
Q8: Can I freeze this sauce?
A8: While this sauce can technically be frozen, the texture might change when thawed due to the mayonnaise. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge.
Q9: What if I don’t have apple cider vinegar?
A9: White vinegar or even lemon juice can work as a substitute if you don’t have apple cider vinegar on hand.
Q10: Can I adjust the sweetness of this sauce?
A10: Yes! If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a teaspoon of honey or sugar to balance out the tang.
Conclusion
This Alabama-Style White Barbecue Sauce is about to become your go-to for all things grilled. Creamy, tangy, and just the right amount of kick, it’ll add a whole new layer of flavor to your favorite barbecue dishes. Whether you’re grilling up a storm or just need something to elevate your meal, this sauce is exactly what you’ve been missing. Give it a try, and get ready for your new favorite barbecue companion!
Print
Alabama-Style White Barbecue Sauce
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Total Time: 5 mins
- Yield: 2 cups 1x
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Mix
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Alabama-Style White Barbecue Sauce is a tangy, creamy sauce that packs a punch with horseradish and cayenne pepper. It’s perfect for slathering on grilled chicken, pork, or as a dipping sauce for vegetables.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup prepared extra-hot horseradish
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons prepared yellow mustard
- 1 1/2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, horseradish, lemon juice, and yellow mustard until smooth.
- Add black pepper, salt, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder, stirring to combine.
- Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. If you want it spicier, add more horseradish or cayenne pepper.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before using to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve on grilled chicken, pork, or as a dipping sauce for your favorite barbecue dishes.
Notes
- This sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Adjust the heat by adding more or less horseradish or cayenne pepper to suit your taste.
- Great for use as a condiment or marinade for grilling.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg