What Do You Serve with NC BBQ?

North Carolina barbecue is a beloved culinary tradition, known for its unique smoky flavors and slow-cooked meats. While the main attraction is undoubtedly the tender, succulent barbecue, the sides you choose to accompany it play a crucial role in elevating the dining experience. From classic comfort foods to unexpected twists, there’s a wide range of options to complement the smoky goodness of NC BBQ.

Classic Sides:

When it comes to North Carolina barbecue, there are certain sides that are considered staples. These dishes complement the smoky flavors of the meat and provide a balanced and satisfying meal.

Coleslaw:

No NC BBQ meal is complete without a generous serving of coleslaw. The creamy, tangy dressing cuts through the richness of the barbecue, while the shredded cabbage adds a refreshing crunch. While traditional coleslaw features a mayonnaise-based dressing, vinegar-based coleslaw is also popular in North Carolina.

Baked Beans:

Baked beans are a quintessential side dish that pairs perfectly with the smoky flavors of barbecue. North Carolina-style baked beans often include a touch of molasses, which adds a sweet and savory depth to the dish. They are typically slow-cooked until tender, absorbing the flavors of the barbecue smoke and creating a rich, comforting experience.

Hushpuppies:

Hushpuppies are small, fried balls of cornbread batter. They are often served as a side dish with barbecue, adding a crispy, savory counterpoint to the smoky meats. The cornbread batter is typically seasoned with onions and herbs, giving the hushpuppies a distinct flavor that complements the barbecue perfectly.

Macaroni and Cheese:

Macaroni and cheese is a comforting and satisfying side that pairs well with the smoky flavors of barbecue. North Carolina-style macaroni and cheese often features a creamy, cheesy sauce with a touch of mustard for a tangy kick.

Beyond the Classics:

While the classic sides are always a hit, there are other options that can add variety and excitement to your NC BBQ meal.

Potato Salad:

Potato salad is a versatile side dish that can be customized to suit different tastes. In North Carolina, a vinegar-based potato salad is often served, offering a tangy and refreshing counterpoint to the smoky flavors of the barbecue.

Cornbread:

Cornbread is a staple in Southern cuisine, and it’s a perfect accompaniment to NC BBQ. North Carolina-style cornbread is often sweeter and more crumbly than other varieties, making it a delicious contrast to the savory barbecue.

Collard Greens:

Collard greens are a leafy green vegetable that’s often cooked with smoked meat and seasoned with vinegar, smoked paprika, and garlic. They offer a hearty and earthy element to the meal and complement the smoky flavors of the barbecue perfectly.

Fried Okra:

Fried okra is a Southern classic that adds a crispy, flavorful element to any barbecue meal. The okra is typically dredged in cornmeal batter and fried until golden brown and crispy, offering a textural contrast to the tender barbecue.

Drinks to Pair with NC BBQ:

No barbecue meal is complete without the right beverage. Here are some classic drinks to pair with North Carolina barbecue:

Sweet Tea:

Sweet tea is the quintessential Southern beverage, and it’s a perfect companion to barbecue. The sweetness of the tea cuts through the richness of the meat, while the refreshing iced texture offers a cool counterpoint to the smoky flavors.

Craft Beer:

Craft beer is an increasingly popular pairing for barbecue. The hoppy bitterness of an IPA or the malty sweetness of a brown ale can complement the smoky flavors of the meat.

Lemonade:

Lemonade is a refreshing and tangy drink that pairs well with barbecue. The citrus notes of the lemonade cut through the richness of the meat, while the sweetness provides a balanced contrast to the savory flavors.

Tips for Serving NC BBQ:

Here are a few tips for serving NC BBQ and sides:

• Use serving platters: Arrange the barbecue and sides attractively on serving platters for a visually appealing and convenient dining experience.
• Provide napkins and wet wipes: Barbecue can be messy, so it’s always a good idea to have napkins and wet wipes readily available.
• Offer a variety of sauces: Provide a variety of barbecue sauces for guests to customize their meals.

Conclusion:

North Carolina barbecue is a culinary experience that’s best enjoyed with a variety of delicious sides. Whether you’re sticking to the classics or exploring new options, there’s a side dish for every taste preference. Remember to pay attention to the balance of flavors and textures to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal. So gather your friends and family, fire up the grill, and enjoy the rich tradition of North Carolina barbecue!

What is the best side dish for NC BBQ?

The best side dish for NC BBQ is arguably coleslaw. This classic pairing complements the smoky, tangy flavor of the barbecue with a refreshing and crunchy contrast. The creamy dressing in the coleslaw also helps to cut through the richness of the meat. Other popular options include hushpuppies, baked beans, and potato salad, all of which offer a balance of flavors and textures that work well with the smoky pork.

While coleslaw is the most traditional side, there are many other delicious choices that can elevate your NC BBQ meal. Consider serving a vibrant green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to offer a light and refreshing counterpoint to the heavier dishes. Or, for a more substantial side, opt for macaroni and cheese, which provides a creamy and comforting element to the meal.

What kind of bread is best for NC BBQ?

The best bread for NC BBQ is a simple white bread, such as a sandwich roll or a hamburger bun. These breads are sturdy enough to hold up to the juicy meat and flavorful sauce, without becoming soggy. They also provide a neutral backdrop that allows the flavors of the barbecue to shine through.

While white bread is the most common choice, you can also experiment with other options, such as a sourdough roll or a brioche bun. These breads offer a more complex flavor that can complement the barbecue in a different way. However, it’s important to choose a bread that is not too dense or heavy, as it may overpower the delicate flavors of the meat.

Are there vegetarian options for NC BBQ sides?

While NC BBQ is traditionally focused on meat, there are several delicious vegetarian options for side dishes. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is always a welcome addition to any barbecue meal. Cornbread is another classic side that can be enjoyed by vegetarians, and it pairs beautifully with the smoky flavors of barbecue.

For a more substantial vegetarian option, consider serving collard greens, a Southern staple that is often served with barbecue. These greens are typically cooked with smoked meat, but they can also be prepared with a vegetarian broth and seasonings for a flavorful and satisfying side dish.

What are some unique NC BBQ side dish ideas?

Beyond the classic coleslaw and hushpuppies, there are many unique and delicious side dishes that can elevate your NC BBQ experience. Consider serving a flavorful slaw made with a combination of cabbage, carrots, and apples, or a sweet potato casserole with a crunchy pecan topping.

For a more adventurous side, try a grilled corn salad with a smoky vinaigrette, or a creamy avocado and corn salsa. These side dishes offer a balance of textures and flavors that complement the richness of the barbecue, while providing a refreshing and unique twist on traditional fare.

What drinks go well with NC BBQ?

The best drinks to pair with NC BBQ are those that complement the smoky, tangy flavors of the barbecue without overwhelming the palate. Sweet tea is a classic choice, offering a refreshing and slightly sweet counterpoint to the savory flavors of the meat.

Other good options include lemonade, iced tea, or a light beer, such as a pale ale or a lager. If you prefer something stronger, a bourbon or whiskey on the rocks can also be a good choice, as the spirit’s smoky notes complement the barbecue flavors.

What is the best way to serve NC BBQ?

The best way to serve NC BBQ is to keep it simple and let the flavors of the meat shine through. A classic NC BBQ platter typically features a generous portion of pulled pork or chopped pork, served on a white bread roll with a side of coleslaw.

You can also add other traditional sides, such as hushpuppies, baked beans, or potato salad, to create a complete meal. To ensure the meat stays warm and moist, consider using a slow cooker or a smoker to prepare the barbecue, or serve it directly from the grill.

What is the history of NC BBQ sides?

The history of NC BBQ sides is closely intertwined with the history of the region’s cuisine itself. Many of the traditional sides, such as coleslaw and hushpuppies, originated in the Southern states and were adopted by barbecue cooks as a way to complement the hearty flavors of the meat.

The use of cornbread as a side dish is also deeply rooted in Southern history, as it was a staple food for generations of farmers and families. As the barbecue tradition evolved, these side dishes became an integral part of the experience, offering a balance of flavors and textures that enhance the enjoyment of the meal.