Craving a tangy and sweet barbecue sauce with a delightful mustard base? Let me share with you my recipe for Carolina Gold BBQ sauce—a rich, golden condiment that’s perfect for all kinds of grilled dishes. Inspired by the iconic flavors of South Carolina, this sauce is sure to elevate any meal you pair it with, from grilled chicken to veggie burgers.
A Taste of Tradition
Growing up, barbecue to me always meant a unique mustard-based sauce that added just the right amount of tanginess and sweetness to whatever I was eating. This Carolina Gold BBQ sauce is my take on that beloved flavor, crafted with ingredients that bring a balance of heat, sweetness, and depth.
While South Carolina is famous for its mustard-based BBQ, this version is my personal creation, combining the best of those traditional flavors into a sauce that you can make at home in no time.
The Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Carolina Gold BBQ sauce, you don’t need anything fancy. These simple ingredients create a sauce that’s bold, sweet, and a little spicy—perfect for any grilled meat or even roasted vegetables:
- 1 cup yellow mustard
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tsp Tabasco sauce
- 1 tsp molasses
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp each, coarse salt and fresh cracked black pepper 🧂
How to Make Carolina Gold BBQ Sauce
- Combine the Ingredients:
Start by placing all of the ingredients into a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Whisk them together to ensure they’re well-mixed 🥄. - Simmer the Sauce:
Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat. Stir frequently to keep things from sticking or burning. Once it starts to bubble, reduce the heat and let it gently simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring often . - Taste and Adjust:
As the sauce simmers, taste it and adjust the flavors if needed. If it’s a little too tangy for your liking, you can add a touch more honey or brown sugar. For an extra kick of heat, feel free to increase the Tabasco sauce to your preferred level of spiciness. - Cool and Store:
Once the sauce has cooked and you’re happy with the flavor, remove it from the heat and let it cool completely. Transfer it into a jar or airtight container and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it . - Storage:
This Carolina Gold BBQ sauce will last up to a month in the fridge, but if you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Just be sure to check the sauce before use to make sure it’s still safe to eat .
Perfect Pairings
This Carolina Gold BBQ sauce is incredibly versatile and can be used in many different ways. It’s perfect with grilled chicken, turkey, or even roasted vegetables like cauliflower or sweet potatoes. The balance of mustard and honey makes it a fantastic sauce for BBQ chicken or veggie burgers, and it also makes a great dip for fries or crispy onion rings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Carolina Gold BBQ Sauce
1. How long does Carolina Gold BBQ sauce last?
The sauce can last up to a month when stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze it, but always use your best judgment to check its safety before consuming.
2. Can I make this sauce spicier?
Absolutely! If you love more heat, you can increase the Tabasco sauce or even add cayenne pepper to taste. You can also try adding chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
3. Can I use a different type of mustard?
While yellow mustard is the traditional choice for Carolina Gold sauce, you can experiment with other mustards, such as Dijon or spicy brown, if you prefer a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that it may alter the sauce’s flavor slightly.
4. What can I use this sauce with besides chicken?
This Carolina Gold BBQ sauce pairs perfectly with grilled meats like turkey or ribs. It’s also great for roasted vegetables, veggie burgers, or as a dipping sauce for fries, onion rings, or fried snacks.
5. Can I make this sauce in advance?
Yes! In fact, making it ahead of time allows the flavors to meld together and develop even more depth. Just be sure to let it cool completely before storing it in the fridge.
6. Is this BBQ sauce vegan?
This recipe is not vegan due to the inclusion of honey. However, you can swap honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan-friendly version.
7. Can I use this sauce on the grill?
Yes, you can! Brush it on grilled meats towards the end of cooking to avoid burning the sugars. It adds a delicious tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully.
8. Can I adjust the sweetness of this sauce?
Definitely! If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more honey or brown sugar to taste. For a more savory version, you can reduce the sugar slightly. Taste and adjust as you go!
Whether you’re planning a backyard cookout or looking to add a zesty twist to your weeknight dinner, this Carolina Gold BBQ sauce brings a touch of Southern flavor to any meal. Give it a try, and I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I do!
