"Ultimate Guide to Lexington Style BBQ Recipe: Mastering the Art of North Carolina's Smoky Delights"

#### Introduction to Lexington Style BBQ RecipeLexington Style BBQ Recipe, also known as the "Piedmont BBQ," is a beloved culinary tradition hailing from No……

#### Introduction to Lexington Style BBQ Recipe

Lexington Style BBQ Recipe, also known as the "Piedmont BBQ," is a beloved culinary tradition hailing from North Carolina. This style of barbecue is characterized by its unique vinegar-based sauce, which sets it apart from other regional BBQ styles. In this guide, we will delve into the history, ingredients, and step-by-step methods to create the perfect Lexington-style BBQ at home.

#### History of Lexington Style BBQ

The roots of Lexington Style BBQ can be traced back to the early 1900s. It emerged in Davidson County, North Carolina, where local pitmasters began to develop their distinct cooking methods. Unlike the Eastern North Carolina BBQ, which uses a whole-hog approach with a vinegar sauce, Lexington style typically focuses on pork shoulder or pork butt, often served with a tangy red sauce that has a hint of tomato.

#### Ingredients for Lexington Style BBQ Recipe

To create an authentic Lexington Style BBQ, you'll need the following ingredients:

1. **Pork Shoulder or Pork Butt**: The star of the dish, providing rich flavor and tenderness when cooked low and slow.

2. **Vinegar**: A key component of the sauce, contributing to the tangy flavor profile.

3. **Tomato Ketchup**: Adds a hint of sweetness and depth to the sauce.

4. **Brown Sugar**: Balances the acidity of the vinegar and enhances the overall flavor.

5. **Spices**: Common spices include black pepper, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder for seasoning the meat and sauce.

6. **Wood Chips**: Hickory is the traditional choice for smoking, imparting a distinctive flavor to the pork.

#### Step-by-Step Instructions for Lexington Style BBQ Recipe

1. **Prepare the Pork**: Start by trimming excess fat from the pork shoulder or butt. Season generously with a dry rub made from black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Let it marinate for at least an hour, or overnight for maximum flavor.

2. **Set Up Your Smoker**: Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). If using a charcoal grill, set it up for indirect heat. Add hickory wood chips to the coals for that signature smoky flavor.

3. **Smoke the Meat**: Place the pork on the smoker grates and close the lid. Smoke for about 1.5 to 2 hours per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 195°F (90°C). This low and slow method ensures the meat becomes tender and flavorful.

4. **Prepare the Lexington Sauce**: In a saucepan, combine equal parts vinegar and ketchup, along with brown sugar and your choice of spices. Simmer over low heat until the sugar dissolves, creating a tangy, sweet sauce that complements the smoky pork.

5. **Shred the Pork**: Once the pork has reached the desired temperature, remove it from the smoker and let it rest for 30 minutes. Then, shred the meat using two forks, discarding any large pieces of fat.

6. **Serve**: Toss the shredded pork with the Lexington sauce, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Serve it on a bun, or alongside coleslaw and baked beans for a complete meal.

#### Conclusion

Lexington Style BBQ Recipe is more than just a cooking method; it's a celebration of flavor, tradition, and community. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a taste of North Carolina, mastering this recipe will surely impress your guests. So fire up your smoker and get ready to enjoy the smoky, tangy goodness of Lexington-style BBQ!