I have got another BBQ sauce recipe that you will love. South Carolina Mustard Barbecue Sauce, also known as Carolina Gold Sauce, is a beloved staple of Southern barbecue cuisine.

This sauce is characterized by its tangy, mustard-forward flavor profile that adds a unique flavor to grilled meats. This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you to make a perfect South Carolina Mustard Barbecue Sauce.

You just need a handful of ingredients to make this delicious South Carolina Mustard Barbecue Sauce in just 10 minutes. If you’re having a barbecue party or simply want to add a bit of Southern flavor to your meal, this Carolina Gold Sauce will do the trick.

You can also try my other favorite recipes like Peach Jalapeno BBQ Sauce Recipe, and White BBQ Sauce (Orignal Alabama White Sauce).

WHAT IS CAROLINA GOLD SAUCE?

Carolina Gold Sauce, also known as South Carolina Mustard Barbecue Sauce, is a type of barbecue sauce originating from the state of South Carolina in the United States.

It is characterized by its distinct mustard-based flavor profile, which sets it apart from other types of barbecue sauces commonly found in different regions.

Traditionally used as a marinade, basting sauce, or finishing glaze for grilled or smoked meats, particularly pork, Carolina Gold Sauce adds a unique and flavorful twist to barbecue dishes.

It has gained popularity not only in South Carolina but also across the country, appreciated for its versatility and bold flavor profile.

INSTRUCTIONS TO MAKE SOUTH CAROLINA MUSTARD BARBECUE SAUCE

INGREDIENTS YOU WILL NEED

1. Yellow Mustard: You will need 1 cup of yellow mustard, which adds a tangy and slightly spicy flavor base to the sauce, characteristic of Carolina Gold Sauce.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar: You’ll need 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar, which provides acidity to balance the sweetness of the sauce and adds a subtle tangy flavor.
3. Honey: You’ll need 1/4 cup of honey, which adds natural sweetness to the sauce, balancing out the tanginess of the mustard and vinegar.
4. Brown Sugar: You’ll need 1/4 cup of brown sugar, which contributes to the sweetness of the sauce and helps to balance the acidity of the vinegar.
5. Worcestershire Sauce: You’ll need 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, which adds depth of flavor and a hint of umami to the sauce.
6. Hot Sauce: You’ll need 1 tablespoon of hot sauce (adjust to taste), which adds a spicy kick to the sauce and enhances its overall flavor profile.
7. Garlic Powder: You’ll need 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, which adds a savory note and depth of flavor to the sauce.
8. Onion Powder: You’ll need 1 teaspoon of onion powder, which adds a subtle onion flavor to the sauce without the texture of chopped onions.
9. Salt: You’ll need 1/2 teaspoon of salt, which helps to balance the flavors and enhance the overall taste of the sauce.
10. Black Pepper: You’ll need 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, which adds a subtle heat and depth of flavor to the sauce.

HOW TO MAKE SOUTH CAROLINA MUSTARD BARBECUE SAUCE: STEP BY STEP

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

To begin, gather all the necessary ingredients for the South Carolina Mustard Barbecue Sauce. This includes yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce (adjust according to preference), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

Once everything is assembled, place a medium-sized saucepan on the stovetop and set the heat to medium. With a whisk in hand, carefully combine all the ingredients in the saucepan.

Make sure to whisk thoroughly, ensuring there are no clumps and all the components are well incorporated into a smooth mixture.

Step 2: Simmer

Once the ingredients are fully combined, allow the mixture to gently come to a simmer. This can be observed when small bubbles begin forming around the edges of the saucepan.

Once the sauce reaches this simmering point, reduce the heat to low to maintain a steady, gentle simmer. This lower heat setting is crucial for allowing the flavors to meld together gradually without boiling too vigorously, which could affect the sauce’s consistency and flavor profile.

Step 3: Cook Until Thickened

With the South Carolina Mustard Barbecue Sauce gently simmering, let it cook for approximately 10-15 minutes. During this time, remember to stir the sauce occasionally to prevent any sticking or uneven cooking.

As the sauce cooks, it will gradually thicken, developing a richer texture and more concentrated flavor. Keep an eye on the sauce and continue simmering until it reaches your desired thickness.

This step allows the flavors to fully develop and ensures that the sauce achieves the perfect consistency for drizzling, dipping, or brushing onto grilled meats.

Step 4: Cool and Store

Once the South Carolina Mustard Barbecue Sauce has reached your preferred thickness, remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the sauce to cool slightly.

Once cooled, transfer the sauce to a clean, airtight container for storage.

Step 5: How to Serve

Once the sauce has cooled and is ready for use, you can incorporate it into your favorite dishes. South Carolina Mustard Barbecue Sauce pairs exceptionally well with grilled meats, such as pork ribs, pulled pork, or grilled chicken.

TEMPERATURE INSTRUCTIONS:

• Keep the South Carolina Mustard Barbecue Sauce at a gentle simmer to allow flavors to meld without boiling.
• Avoid overheating when reheating to prevent separation or flavor loss.
• Maintain a low simmer throughout the cooking process to prevent burning or sticking.
• When reheating, gently warm the South Carolina Mustard Barbecue Sauce over low heat to preserve its flavor and consistency.

EXPERT TIPS

• Throughout the cooking process, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment with additional ingredients to customize the sauce to your liking.
• Pay attention to the consistency of the sauce as it cooks. If it’s too thin, continue simmering until it thickens to your desired consistency.
• Allow the sauce to cool slightly before serving or storing.
• South Carolina Mustard Barbecue Sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

HEALTHIER ALTERNATIVES: BALANCING TASTE AND NUTRITION

When aiming for a healthier version of South Carolina Mustard Barbecue Sauce, consider these alternatives.

Firstly, opt for natural sweeteners like maple syrup or agave nectar instead of traditional brown sugar to reduce the overall sugar content.

You can use low-sodium or reduced-sodium Worcestershire sauce and hot sauce to decrease the sauce’s sodium content without compromising flavor.

Secondly, choose organic or all-natural ingredients whenever possible to minimize exposure to pesticides and additives.

Consider using whole-grain mustard or a combination of yellow and Dijon mustard for added depth of flavor and nutritional benefits.

These simple swaps can help create a healthier version of this beloved South Carolina Mustard Barbecue Sauce without sacrificing taste or authenticity.

VARIATIONS

Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, add extra hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to amp up the spiciness of the South Carolina Mustard Barbecue Sauce.

Smoky Flavor: Infuse the sauce with a rich, smoky flavor by adding a few drops of liquid smoke or smoked paprika.

Sweet and Tangy Twist: Experiment with different sweeteners such as molasses, maple syrup, or pineapple juice to add a unique twist to the South Carolina Mustard Barbecue Sauce.

Herb Infusion: Elevate the sauce with the addition of fresh or dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano.

WHAT GOES WELL WITH SOUTH CAROLINA MUSTARD BARBECUE SAUCE

South Carolina Mustard Barbecue Sauce pairs exceptionally well with a variety of dishes, adding a tangy and flavorful twist to your favorite barbecue classics.

One delicious option is Grilled chicken, just brush the sauce on the chicken during cooking to create a caramelized glaze that adds depth to every bite. For ribs, slathering them with South Carolina Mustard Barbecue Sauce before or during grilling results in a mouthwatering combination of tangy mustard and smoky flavors.

Even burgers benefit from this South Carolina Mustard Barbecue Sauce, as it provides a unique and zesty topping that elevates the savory flavors of the beef or alternative burger patties.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I adjust the level of spiciness in the sauce?

Yes, you can easily adjust the spiciness of the sauce by varying the amount of hot sauce added. Start with a small amount and gradually increase to your desired level of heat.

How long can I store the barbecue sauce?

South Carolina Mustard Barbecue Sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Make sure to cool the sauce completely before storing it.

Can I freeze the barbecue sauce for later use?

While it is possible to freeze the sauce, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. It’s best to consume the sauce fresh or refrigerate it for short-term storage.

What can I use as a substitute for yellow mustard?

If you don’t have yellow mustard on hand, you can use Dijon mustard or whole-grain mustard as a substitute. Keep in mind that this may alter the flavor profile of the sauce slightly.

Is South Carolina Mustard Barbecue Sauce gluten-free?

It depends on the specific brands of ingredients used. Check the labels to ensure that all ingredients are gluten-free if you have dietary restrictions.

Can I use this sauce as a marinade?

Yes, this sauce works great as a marinade for meats before grilling or smoking. Simply coat the meat with the sauce and let it marinate in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight for maximum flavor.

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