If you’ve ever wondered what sets US 31 BBQ apart, it’s all in the sauce and that signature cabbage relish. This recipe brings together a sweet and tangy mix that perfectly complements the slow-roasted pork or beef, making each bite a real crowd-pleaser. The secret lies in combining shredded cabbage, chopped onions, sweet pickle relish, horseradish, pimentos, mustard, vinegar, and sugar to create a unique, mouthwatering relish. 😋

This isn’t your average BBQ sauce. It’s a texture party with a crunchy cabbage base and a smooth, tangy punch from mustard and horseradish, all tied together with just the right amount of sweetness and acidity. It feels like a little bite of Muskegon’s history served up on a bun. 🍔
Try thinking of it as the secret weapon in your BBQ arsenal. It’s simple to make but leaves a lasting impression. You can almost hear the sizzle and smell the smoky goodness as you spread this sauce onto your sandwich. Ready to get your hands saucy? 🍴
Ingredients List & Step-By-Step Instructions For Us 31 Bbq Recipe
This recipe calls for a crisp shredded cabbage base mixed with tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy barbecue sauce components. The process moves from prepping fresh ingredients to simmering the sauce and finishing with the cooking and serving details.
Step 1: Prepare The Ingredients
Begin by shredding 1½ pounds of cabbage—this gives the salad that satisfying crunch. Chop 1 green onion finely for a mild sharpness. Get ready 1 cup of sweet pickle relish to bring a tangy zing.
Gather the rest: ½ cup ketchup for sweetness, ¼ cup yellow mustard for a bit of bite, ½ cup sugar to balance flavors, and ⅛ cup horseradish for that subtle heat kick. Finally, add ¼ cup cider vinegar to brighten things up and 2 tablespoons chopped pimientos for a splash of color and slight sweetness.
Step 2: Make The BBQ Sauce
Mix the shredded cabbage and chopped green onion in a large bowl. In a separate saucepan, combine ketchup, mustard, sugar, horseradish, cider vinegar, pickle relish, and pimientos.
Simmer this mixture gently for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to meld flavors without burning. This slow simmer pulls all the sweet, tangy, and spicy notes together, creating the signature sauce that hugs the cabbage perfectly. Let it cool a bit before tossing everything together.
Step 3: Cook And Serve
Once the sauce and cabbage are combined, chill the mixture in the fridge for at least an hour. This resting time lets the flavors dance together. Serve it cold or at room temperature alongside smoked pork or beef—ideal for backyard barbecues or family dinners 🍖.
For that authentic US 31 BBQ feel, serve with classic sides like baked beans and cornbread. It’s simple, satisfying, and ready to win over anyone who loves a good BBQ bite!
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