North Carolina BBQ is a beloved tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation. With its rich history, unique flavors, and signature cooking techniques, North Carolina BBQ has earned a reputation as one of the best BBQ styles in the country. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, you can’t help but be captivated by the aroma of slow-cooked pork wafting through the air and the sight of whole hog BBQ roasting over a pit. Let’s delve into the history of North Carolina BBQ, explore the different regional styles, and highlight some of the best BBQ joints in the state. So get ready to fire up your taste buds and take a journey through the world of North Carolina BBQ!
The Two Different Styles North Carolina BBQ
Carolina BBQ has two main regional styles: Lexington and Eastern. Lexington Style uses pork shoulder and a tomato-vinegar sauce with a smoky flavor from hickory wood. The Eastern Style uses the whole hog cooked over oak or hickory wood with a simple vinegar, salt, and pepper seasoning, resulting in a tangy, slightly spicy flavor. Both styles offer a unique taste experience in North Carolina BBQ.
The Best Of Lexington Style North Carolina BBQ
If you’re looking for an authentic Lexington-style BBQ, look no further than Lexington BBQ. This restaurant truly embodies the essence of BBQ, with its slow-smoked pork shoulder, tangy tomato-based sauce, and savory hickory smoke flavor. The meat is cooked to perfection, resulting in a juicy and tender texture that melts in your mouth. The sides are equally delicious, with a variety of options such as delicious coleslaw, and hushpuppies that perfectly complement the BBQ. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with a rustic, down-home feel that makes you feel right at home. Whether you’re a BBQ enthusiast or just looking for a delicious meal, Lexington BBQ is a must-visit restaurant that truly delivers on taste and atmosphere.
The Best Of Eastern-Style North Carolina BBQ
Stamey’s BBQ is a must-visit for Eastern-Style BBQ. Their whole hog, seasoned with vinegar, salt, and pepper, is juicy and flavorful. The sides, like coleslaw and mac & cheese, complement the BBQ perfectly. The restaurant has a charming and relaxed atmosphere. Stamey’s BBQ offers a delicious meal in a welcoming environment.
North Carolina is famous for its BBQ, divided into two regions with unique sauces: vinegar-based in the east and tomato-based in the west. Barbecue is not just about the meat, but also the sides like coleslaw, hushpuppies, and baked beans. A staple of the state’s culture, it’s a must-try for locals and visitors alike, with many local joints and food festivals dedicated to this beloved culinary tradition.
Make Carolina BBQ At Home
If your cravings for Carolina BBQ have ramped up but you can’t make the trip out to the Carolinas for some authentic BBQ, you’re in luck!
Here are some tried and true recipes for authentic Carolina BBQ eats.
Carolina Vinegar BBQ Sauce
Carolina Vinegar BBQ Sauce is tangy, and spicy, and is the ultimate sauce when you’re serving pork! Originating in North Carolina, this sauce is easy to make with just 6 ingredients. This traditional sauce is for anyone who takes pork BBQ seriously.
BBQ Red Slaw
Finely chopped cabbage, tangy apple cider vinegar, sweetness from sugar, then pepper along with a dash of hot sauce make this one special dish that’s unique to our part of the country. Anyone who’s ever been to a North Carolina restaurant, shack, or BBQ joint knows about red slaw.
Carolina Pulled Pork
Carolina Pulled BBQ is an authentic flavor unique to the Carolinas. It is a Vinegar based sauce that is tangy and sweet with a unique smokey flavor.
Make BBQ Easy
Carolina BBQ is a labor of love and is very time-consuming. Make delicious pulled pork at home the easy way with your Crock Pot.
Best Crock Pot Pulled Pork
Juicy, perfectly seasoned pulled pork cooked low and slow is the ultimate recipe for casual entertaining! Whether served as a sandwich on game day, made into nachos for movie night, or served on a buffet for a family gathering, this is a must-make recipe any month of the year.
marilyn says
thank you for a the delicious recipes