33. North Carolina - Lexington Style Barbecue

The barbecue wars between the states is no laughing matter, some are willing to get violent in order to prove they're the pitmaster state but none have had in-house barbecue wars like the state of North Carolina. Matter of fact, several laws and legislation have been put in place in regards to the state's barbecue culture. There are two types of barbecue in the state of North Carolina, Eastern-style and Lexington style.

Both styles are pork-based but Lexington style takes the edge over the notorious Eastern style for its tomato-based barbecue sauce that is known for dipping rather than being slathered on the meat directly. The vinegar and tomato-based sauce featuring salt, pepper, chili flakes, and an additional secret spices is the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and spicy and has even garnered its very own festival, the Lexington Barbecue Festival. No offense to the fans of North Carolina Eastern-style barbecue, but Lexington style sauce is just more renowned for its deliciousness.

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