Carolina Gold BBQ Sauce
Carolina Gold BBQ Sauce is a tangy, mustard-based sauce known for its balance of sweetness, spice, and vinegar brightness. Originating from South Carolina, it enhances grilled and smoked meats with its bold flavor. Easy to prepare, this sauce brings a unique Southern touch to dishes. Proper storage keeps it fresh and flavorful, making it a favorite for barbecue lovers everywhere.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or spoon for stirring
- Airtight jar or container (for storage)
Ingredients
- 1 cup yellow mustard
- ⅓ cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 to 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup for vegan
- 1 to 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
Mix The Base:
- In a medium-sized pot, toss in the yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, honey (or maple syrup if that’s what you’ve got), ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce.
Add The Spices:
- Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, a pinch of salt, black pepper, and a bit of cayenne pepper (go easy on the cayenne if you don’t want too much heat).
Heat It Up:
- Set the pot over medium heat. Stir it now and then as it warms up don’t let it boil hard, just get it bubbling gently.
Let It Simmer:
- Keep it on a low simmer for about 8 to 10 minutes. Stir every couple of minutes so it doesn’t stick or burn. It’ll start to thicken up a little and the flavours will come together nicely.
Taste Test:
- Give it a quick taste. Need more sweetness? Add a touch more honey or sugar. Not enough tang? A splash more vinegar. Make it yours.
Cool Down & Store:
- Take it off the heat and let it cool a bit. Then pour it into a clean jar or container. Seal it up and keep it in the fridge it’ll stay good for up to two weeks.