If you’ve never had Alabama White Sauce, you’re in for a treat! This tangy, creamy sauce is a game-changer for any grilled or smoked meats, but it really shines on chicken. Think of it as the unsung hero of barbecue sauces—rich, savory, and with a hint of spice, this sauce will elevate your dishes to a whole new level. It’s made with mayonnaise, vinegar, and a blend of simple seasonings, yet its flavor is bold and irresistible. Pour it over smoked chicken, drizzle it on a burger, or even dip your fries in it—you’ll be hooked after just one taste. Get ready to make this the secret ingredient in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love Alabama White Sauce
- Perfect Balance of Creamy and Tangy: The combination of mayo and vinegar creates a sauce that’s both creamy and tangy, with a sharp kick that makes it unlike any other barbecue sauce.
- Versatile: This sauce works wonderfully on chicken, especially grilled or smoked chicken, but it can also be drizzled on sandwiches, burgers, or even roasted vegetables.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a flavorful, homemade sauce ready to impress in no time.
- No-Cook: No heat required! Just whisk the ingredients together and you’re good to go.
- Zesty and Unique: This sauce has a distinct Southern charm that sets it apart from traditional barbecue sauces, making it a must-try for anyone looking to try something different.
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Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for Alabama White Sauce:
- 1 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base of the sauce that gives it that luscious, smooth texture.
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar: Adds the tangy zing that balances out the creaminess.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: A burst of fresh, citrusy brightness to complement the vinegar.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle sharpness and depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: A savory umami kick that brings all the flavors together.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For that classic garlicky flavor that makes everything taste better.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: For a little heat and seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): If you like a little heat, this is where you’ll add it.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: To season and bring all the flavors into balance.
(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card above.)
Instructions
Step 1: Whisk Together Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
Step 2: Add Heat (Optional)
If you prefer a spicier sauce, stir in the cayenne pepper. You can adjust the amount based on how spicy you like it, so feel free to add more if you’re a fan of heat.
Step 3: Mix and Taste
Whisk everything together until smooth and well combined. Give it a taste—if you want it tangier, add a bit more vinegar or lemon juice. If you want it creamier, a touch more mayo should do the trick!
Step 4: Chill (Optional)
While this step is optional, allowing the sauce to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving will help the flavors meld and intensify.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Drizzle your Alabama White Sauce over grilled chicken, use it as a dip for fries, or get creative and add it to your favorite grilled meats, sandwiches, or even salads. Enjoy the bold, creamy, and tangy kick that this sauce brings to your dishes!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 120
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 10mg
Sodium: 180mg
Total Carbohydrate: 1g
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 0g
Protein: 0g
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes (optional)
Total Time: 5 minutes
How to Serve Alabama White Sauce
- Grilled Chicken: This sauce is a match made in heaven for smoked or grilled chicken, especially if you’ve got some crispy skin on it.
- BBQ Sandwiches: Drizzle it over pulled pork or chicken sandwiches for a creamy, tangy bite.
- Vegetable Dip: Use this as a dipping sauce for roasted veggies like carrots, cauliflower, or bell peppers.
- Burgers: Swap out traditional condiments for a creamy layer of Alabama White Sauce on your next burger.
- Fries or Onion Rings: Dip crispy fries or onion rings into this zesty sauce for a unique twist on your usual dipping sauces.
Additional Tips
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5-7 days.
- Make It Your Own: Feel free to play with the flavors! Try adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley, or even a splash of hot sauce for more heat.
- Perfect for Summer: This sauce is especially great for summer BBQs and cookouts. It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use a different type of vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar?
A1: Yes, you can use white vinegar or red wine vinegar as a substitute, though apple cider vinegar gives it a distinct tang.
Q2: How spicy is Alabama White Sauce?
A2: It’s mildly spicy if you add the cayenne pepper, but you can skip it for a more mild version. You can adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
Q3: Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
A3: Absolutely! In fact, it gets even better after chilling for a bit. Prepare it up to a day ahead and store it in the fridge.
Q4: Can I use this sauce on other meats besides chicken?
A4: Definitely! This sauce works well on grilled pork, turkey, or even as a dip for fried foods like shrimp or mozzarella sticks.
Q5: Can I make this sauce without mayonnaise?
A5: You can try using Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter, tangier version of the sauce, though it may change the flavor a bit.
Q6: Can I use this sauce as a salad dressing?
A6: Yes, it makes a great creamy dressing for salads, especially when paired with grilled chicken or bacon.
Q7: Is Alabama White Sauce gluten-free?
A7: Yes! This sauce is naturally gluten-free, so it’s perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.
Q8: How long will the sauce last in the fridge?
A8: The sauce can be stored in the fridge for about 5-7 days.
Q9: Can I freeze Alabama White Sauce?
A9: It’s best fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 1-2 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before using it.
Q10: Can I use this as a marinade?
A10: Yes! It makes a great marinade for chicken or pork, especially if you let the meat sit in it for a few hours before cooking.
Conclusion
Alabama White Sauce is an absolute must-try! Whether you’re a fan of barbecue or just love a good creamy sauce, this tangy, smoky recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. It’s simple, versatile, and absolutely packed with flavor. Drizzle it on your favorite grilled meats, use it as a dip, or add it to sandwiches—this sauce does it all. So, grab your ingredients, whip it up, and enjoy the creamy, tangy goodness in every bite!
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Alabama White Sauce
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 1/2 cups (approximately 6 servings) 1x
Description
Alabama White Sauce is a tangy, creamy, and slightly spicy barbecue sauce that originated in Alabama. Made with mayonnaise, vinegar, and spices, this sauce is perfect for grilled chicken, pork, and even as a dipping sauce for vegetables. It’s a unique alternative to traditional red BBQ sauces, offering a bold, flavorful twist!
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon white sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
Instructions
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and sugar until smooth.
Step 2: Add Spices
Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the mixture. Stir well to combine.
Step 3: Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the sauce for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve chilled as a dipping sauce or drizzle over grilled chicken, pork, or even vegetables.
Notes
- Storage: This sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
- Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper.
- Serving Suggestions: Alabama White Sauce pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, smoked meats, or as a dipping sauce for fries or vegetables.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Sauce, Condiment
- Method: Mixing, Refrigerating
- Cuisine: American, Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons (based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg