Today I’m bringing a little taste of the South to your kitchen with this Georgia Mustard Barbecue Sauce. If you’ve never tried a mustard-based barbecue sauce, you’re in for a treat. This sauce is tangy, slightly sweet, and has just the right amount of heat to keep things interesting. It’s perfect for slathering on grilled or smoked meats, and it adds a unique Southern flair to your barbecue game.
I first discovered this sauce at a barbecue joint in Georgia, and I knew I had to recreate it at home. After a few tries, I nailed the recipe, and now it’s a staple in my kitchen. Whether you’re grilling chicken, smoking pork, or just looking for a way to jazz up your sandwiches, this sauce is a must-try.
Why This Sauce is a Game-Changer
What sets this barbecue sauce apart is its bold, tangy flavor profile. The mustard base gives it a sharp, zesty kick, while the brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness to balance it out. The apple cider vinegar and Worcestershire sauce bring depth and complexity, and the Tabasco gives it just enough heat to keep your taste buds dancing.
It’s incredibly versatile, too. Use it as a basting sauce while grilling, a dipping sauce for chicken tenders, or even as a spread for sandwiches. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to put it on everything.
What You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious sauce:
- 1 cup mustard (yellow mustard works best for that classic flavor)
- ½ cup firmly packed brown sugar (for sweetness and depth)
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar (adds tanginess and brightness)
- 2 tablespoons butter (for richness)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (adds umami and complexity)
- 1 teaspoon salt (to enhance the flavors)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (for a little kick)
- 1 teaspoon celery seed (adds a subtle earthy note)
- 1 teaspoon Tabasco (adjust to your spice preference)
How to Make It (Step-by-Step)
Making this sauce is as easy as it gets. Here’s how I do it:
Combine the Ingredients
In a saucepan, add all the ingredients: mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, butter, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, celery seed, and Tabasco.
Simmer Gently
Place the saucepan over low heat and let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure everything is well combined and the sugar is fully dissolved.
Cool and Store
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the sauce cool for 10–15 minutes. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the fridge.
How I Like to Use This Sauc
This Georgia Mustard Barbecue Sauce is incredibly versatile. Here are a few of my favorite ways to use it:
Grilled Chicken: Brush it on during the last few minutes of grilling for a tangy, caramelized glaze.
Ribs: Use it as a basting sauce for ribs while they’re smoking or grilling.
Burgers: Spread it on your burger buns for a zesty twist.
Dipping Sauce: Serve it on the side with chicken tenders, fries, or even roasted veggies.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Sauce
Adjust the Heat: If you’re not a fan of too much spice, reduce the amount of Tabasco or leave it out entirely.
Smooth Consistency: For a smoother sauce, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve before storing.
Make It Ahead: This sauce tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it in advance.
Storage: Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.
Why You Should Make This Sauce
If you’re tired of the same old tomato-based barbecue sauces, this Georgia Mustard Barbecue Sauce is a refreshing change. It’s bold, tangy, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect addition to your grilling and smoking repertoire. Plus, it’s so easy to make, you’ll wonder why you haven’t tried it sooner.
FAQs About Georgia Mustard Barbecue Sauce
Can I use Dijon mustard instead of yellow mustard?
Yes, you can use Dijon mustard for a more complex flavor, but it will be less traditional. Yellow mustard gives the classic Southern taste.
Is there a substitute for celery seed?
If you don’t have celery seed, you can use a pinch of celery salt (just reduce the added salt in the recipe) or leave it out entirely.
Can I make this sauce spicier?
Absolutely! Add more Tabasco or a pinch of cayenne pepper to kick up the heat.
How long does this sauce last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, it will stay fresh for up to two weeks.
Can I freeze this sauce?
Yes, this sauce freezes well. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before using.
What if I don’t have apple cider vinegar?
You can substitute white vinegar or even lemon juice, but apple cider vinegar adds the best flavor.
Can I use this sauce as a marinade?
Yes, it works great as a marinade for chicken, pork, or even tofu. Just let the meat soak in the sauce for a few hours before cooking.
So, fire up that grill, grab your ingredients, and give this sauce a try. I promise, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen just like it has in mine.
Georgia Mustard Barbecue Sauce
Ingredients
- 1 cup mustard
- ½ cup firmly packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon celery seed
- 1 teaspoon Tabasco
Instructions
- Combine all the ingredients in a saucepan over low heat.
- Simmer gently for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let the sauce cool for 10–15 minutes before using.
- Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of Tabasco to control the heat level.
- Use this sauce as a basting glaze for chicken, pork, or ribs while grilling.
- For a smoother consistency, strain the sauce before storing.
