North Carolina barbecue is a distinct style of barbecue that primarily focuses on pork, particularly the whole hog or pork shoulder. It is known for its unique cooking methods, which often involve slow-cooking the meat over wood or charcoal for several hours. The result is tender, flavorful meat that is typically pulled apart and served with a variety of sauces. There are two main styles of North Carolina barbecue sauce: Eastern North Carolina sauce, which is vinegar-based and typically has no tomato, and Western North Carolina sauce, also known as Lexington-style, which includes a tomato base and a hint of sweetness. Both styles reflect the region's rich culinary traditions.