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Vinegar Sauce

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This tangy cider vinegar sauce is a versatile staple for anyone who enjoys the sharp, savoury profiles of traditional barbecue seasonings. By balancing the acidity of cider vinegar with deep Worcestershire sauce and a hint of hard cider, this recipe creates a bright condiment that cuts through rich meats beautifully. It is a fantastic low-sugar alternative to syrupy, shop-bought glazes, relying on mustard powder and a touch of cayenne for a subtle, warming heat.

Ideal as a table sauce or a mopping liquid for slow-cooked meats, this preparation is a must-have for summer cookouts and Sunday roasts alike. Because it stores well in the fridge for up to a week, you can easily prepare it in advance to save time on the day of your gathering. Simply drizzle it over pulled pork or roasted chicken for an instant punch of flavour.

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Ingredients for Vinegar Sauce

  • 475ml cider vinegar

  • 120ml Worcestershire sauce

  • 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar

  • 1 tablespoon hard cider

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons Colman's mustard powder

  • 1/8 teaspoons cayenne pepper

  • 1/8 teaspoons garlic powder

  • 1/8 teaspoons granulated onion

How to make Vinegar Sauce

In a large nonreactive saucepan, combine all the ingredients and bring to a boil, then turn off the heat and let cool to room temperature.

Transfer the sauce to a container, cover, and refrigerate until ready to use.

The sauce can be made and chilled for up to 1 week.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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