The tangy touch that makes a barbecue sauce "Memphis style"
Memphis-style barbecue sauce is distinguished by a tangy flavor that comes from its high vinegar content, which sets it apart from other sweeter sauces.
Barbecue encompasses everything from sweet, tender cuts of meat to tougher, saltier varieties, and its definition varies from region to region, as does the sauce. Anyone in Tennessee, or who buys a bottle of Memphis-style sauce, will find the flavors characteristic of what is considered the barbecue capital of the world.
What distinguishes this sauce is its acidic flavor. While other sauces rely primarily on brown sugar or tomatoes, Memphis-style sauce stands out for its vinegar. Although quite acidic, it's classified as a tomato-based sauce, and it's the tomatoes that give it its red color. It's lighter than other tomato sauces and not as sweet.
It's also very spicy, which, along with the vinegar, makes it very flavorful. Even a thin layer can enhance the taste of ribs seasoned with spices.
Compared to Kansas City-style salsa, which is thick, sweet, and more traditional, Memphis salsa is more tangy and lighter. Kansas City salsa is made primarily with ketchup, brown sugar, and molasses, while Memphis salsa uses tomato sauce, vinegar, and brown sugar. Its flavor is distinct from most popular salsas, and it can be used for almost anything, from roast pork to chicken marinade. Many people tend to prefer one or the other, so it's worth trying both.
The essential elements of Memphis-style salsa are tomato sauce, vinegar, and brown sugar, with a touch of spices, though every recipe varies. Traditional tomato sauce provides a balanced base flavor, though some chefs prefer tomato paste or ketchup for their concentration. Brown sugar can be substituted with molasses or maple syrup for a thicker consistency. White vinegar works well, and apple cider vinegar adds a sweeter flavor. Common spices include cayenne pepper, garlic, hot sauce, paprika, chili powder, and dried oregano.
