Description
Carolina Gold BBQ Sauce is a tangy, mustard-based sauce from South Carolina. Its bold, slightly sweet, and mildly spicy flavor makes it perfect for pulled pork, chicken, ribs, and burgers. Quick to make and packed with Southern tradition!
Ingredients
- 1 cup yellow mustard
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey (or brown sugar for deeper sweetness)
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter (for added richness)
Instructions
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a medium saucepan over low heat, whisk together mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
Step 2: Add Spices
Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt.
Step 3: Simmer
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently. Cook for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Finish with Butter
Remove from heat and whisk in butter until fully melted for a silky texture.
Step 5: Cool and Store
Let sauce cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least an hour before using.
Notes
- Sweeter Sauce: Add more honey or brown sugar.
- Spicier Version: Increase cayenne or add hot sauce.
- Thicker Consistency: Simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry.
- Low-Carb Option: Use sugar-free sweetener instead of honey/brown sugar.
- Tangier Flavor: Add extra apple cider vinegar.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Condiments & Sauces
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Southern, American
Keywords: Carolina Gold BBQ Sauce, mustard-based barbecue sauce, South Carolina BBQ, homemade BBQ sauce, tangy barbecue sauce.