White barbecue sauce is a type of sauce commonly used in northern Alabama. It has a mayonnaise-like appearance and flavor and is used on chicken, pork, and other barbecued meats.
A Brief History of White BBQ Sauce
White barbecue sauce originated in Decatur, Alabama in the 1920s. It was likely created by Robert Gibson, the owner of Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q restaurant. Gibson developed the sauce to complement his smoked chicken dishes.
The sauce became popular throughout northern Alabama over the years. It is still a specialty of the region today, with Big Bob Gibson’s restaurant bottling and selling their version nationwide.
Ingredients in White BBQ Sauce
While recipes can vary, the base of white barbecue sauce is mayonnaise and vinegar. Common additional ingredients include:
- Worcestershire Sauce – Adds depth of flavor
- Lemon Juice – Bright, citrusy flavor
- Garlic Powder – Savory aroma
- Cayenne Pepper – A touch of heat
- Salt and Pepper – Seasoning
The mayonnaise and vinegar combine to give white barbecue sauce its creamy, tangy flavor profile. The other ingredients customize the flavor balance.
How White BBQ Sauce is Used
White barbecue sauce can be used as a condiment for grilled, smoked, or baked chicken. It also pairs well with pulled pork sandwiches. The sauce is brushed or drizzled over the meat just before serving.
The sauce complements the flavor of the smoked meat without overpowering it. Its creamy texture also helps it adhere well to the meat.
Some chefs also incorporate white barbecue sauce into potato salad, coleslaw, and baked beans recipes. It gives these traditional sides a tangy zip.
Distinctive Flavor of White BBQ Sauce
The main distinguishing factor between white barbecue sauce and traditional barbecue sauces is the mayonnaise base. While tomato-and vinegar-based sauces are ubiquitous nationwide, the mayo and vinegar combination is unique to northern Alabama.
The sauce has a rich, creamy flavor profile. There is a slightly sweet, tart taste from the mayonnaise and vinegar that complements smokey barbecue perfectly. The sauce also has a touch of savory garlic and heat.
Overall, white barbecue sauce provides a cool, tangy contrast to hot, juicy barbecue. The flavor balance is both distinctive and addictive. It’s no wonder why the sauce has been popular for close to 100 years.
How to Make White BBQ Sauce at Home
Making white barbecue sauce at home is simple. Here is an easy recipe to try:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1⁄4 cup white vinegar
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1⁄2 tsp black pepper
- 1⁄4 tsp cayenne pepper
Instructions:
- Whisk together all ingredients in a bowl until fully blended.
- Let sauce chill for at least 30 minutes for flavors to blend.
- Store leftover sauce in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
The great thing about white barbecue sauce is that it can be customized to taste. Add more cayenne for extra heat or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for depth. Play around with ingredients to create your own signature version.
Where to Find White BBQ Sauce
While white barbecue sauce originated in northern Alabama, it has expanded in popularity and availability over the years. Here are some places you can find white barbecue sauce:
- Online – Amazon and specialty websites sell bottled sauce from the original Big Bob Gibson’s and other brands. This allows access to those outside the region.
- Grocery Stores – Some major grocery store chains in the South, such as Publix and Piggly Wiggly, stock white barbecue sauce from local producers.
- Barbecue Restaurants – Many barbecue joints in Alabama serve their signature house-made white sauce. Stop in to try the authentic stuff.
- Specialty Retailers – Some gourmet food shops and Southern-focused stores sell artisanal white barbecue sauces from small batch producers.
- Make it Yourself – Find white barbecue sauce recipes online or in Southern cookbooks. Homemade allows full control over ingredients.
Part of white barbecue sauce’s appeal is that it’s still a specialty product. Trying an authentic version enhances visits to northern Alabama. But no matter where you live, it’s worth tasting this uniquely flavored sauce.
Common Questions About White BBQ Sauce
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about white barbecue sauce:
What does white barbecue sauce taste like?
White barbecue sauce has a creamy, tangy taste thanks to its mayonnaise and vinegar base. It also often has notes of garlic, black pepper, salt, and mild heat.
What is the difference between white and red barbecue sauce?
Red barbecue sauce has a tomato base with a ketchup-like flavor. White barbecue sauce uses mayonnaise as the base for a richer, tangier flavor.
What is white barbecue sauce made of?
The main ingredients are mayonnaise and vinegar. Recipes also typically include garlic powder, black pepper, salt, cayenne pepper, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce.
What foods do you use white barbecue sauce for?
White barbecue sauce complements smoked or grilled chicken especially well. It’s also used on pulled pork sandwiches and can be added to side dishes like potato salad.
Where does white barbecue sauce come from?
White barbecue sauce originated at Big Bob Gibson’s restaurant in Decatur, Alabama in the 1920s. It’s still most popular in northern Alabama today.
Is white barbecue sauce spicy?
Most white barbecue sauce recipes have just a touch of heat from cayenne pepper. But the sauce is tangy rather than spicy overall. Adjust the cayenne to taste preference.
How long does homemade white barbecue sauce last?
Properly stored in the refrigerator, homemade white barbecue sauce will last for 4-5 days. The mayonnaise gives it a shorter shelf life than traditional sauces.
White barbecue sauce is an Alabama specialty with a uniquely tangy, creamy flavor. Try it on smoked chicken or pork for a taste sensation. Just be cautious not to let this addicting sauce disappear too quickly!