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Best Alabama White Sauce Recipe

Alabama White Sauce

iamwinfred
This legendary Alabama white sauce is a tangy, creamy mayonnaise-based condiment that completely transforms barbecue. Originating from north Alabama, it offers a unique alternative to traditional red BBQ sauces with its peppery kick and luxurious texture. The best part? It takes just 5 minutes to make with pantry staples you already have.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 2 cups
Calories 145 kcal

Equipment

  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Storage container with lid For refrigerating

Ingredients
  

  • 1½ cups mayonnaise 360ml, full-fat recommended (Duke's preferred)
  • ¼ cup apple cider vinegar 60ml
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 30ml
  • 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 teaspoons black pepper freshly ground recommended
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste
  • 1 tablespoon sugar optional, helps balance tang

Instructions
 

  • Add mayonnaise to a medium mixing bowl, then measure and add the apple cider vinegar, fresh lemon juice, horseradish, and Dijon mustard.
  • Add black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, cayenne pepper, and sugar (if using) to the bowl.
  • Whisk all ingredients together vigorously for about 30 seconds until completely smooth with no lumps of spices remaining.
  • Taste and adjust seasonings as needed - add more mayonnaise or sugar if too tangy, more pepper or cayenne for extra heat, or water to thin if too thick.
  • Transfer to a storage container, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Stir before using.

Notes

  • Use full-fat mayonnaise for best results - low-fat versions make the sauce watery and bland
  • Freshly ground black pepper makes a significant difference in flavor compared to pre-ground
  • The sauce improves after sitting in the fridge for a few hours as flavors meld together
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks
  • The sauce will thicken as it sits - thin with water one teaspoon at a time if needed
  • Do not freeze this sauce as the mayonnaise will separate and become grainy
  • Start with less cayenne than you think you need - you can always add more
  • Duke's mayonnaise is the gold standard for this sauce and what Alabama pitmasters use
  • Perfect for smoked chicken, pulled pork, coleslaw, grilled vegetables, and as a sandwich spread
  • Always use a clean spoon when serving to prevent contamination and extend shelf life

Nutrition

Serving: 2tablespoonsCalories: 145kcalCarbohydrates: 2gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2.5gCholesterol: 8mgSodium: 210mgSugar: 1gVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 1mg
Keyword alabama white sauce, bbq sauce, mayonnaise sauce, southern sauce, white bbq sauce
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