Mustard Magic: Carolina's Tangy Bbq Sauce Secrets

Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce, also known as Carolina Gold, is a type of barbecue sauce that originated in South Carolina. It is made with mustard, vinegar, a sweetener, and spices, resulting in a golden sauce with a sharp mustard flavour. The mustard and vinegar give the sauce its distinctive sharp taste and rich golden colour. This type of BBQ sauce is perfect for grilled and smoked meats, especially pork and chicken.

Carolina Gold BBQ Sauce

The history of Carolina Gold BBQ Sauce can be traced back to the Germans who populated South Carolina in the 1700s. Germans have a fondness for mustard, which led to its early introduction in the region. The overall flavour of the sauce, however, is what has made it enduringly popular. Carolina Gold BBQ Sauce is now a staple in South Carolina and has also gained popularity in North Carolina, where it is often offered alongside other barbecue sauces in many BBQ restaurants.

The process of making Carolina Gold BBQ Sauce is relatively simple. The basic ingredients include yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, honey, and spices such as garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Some recipes may also include additional ingredients like ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, or hot sauce. All the ingredients are combined and whisked together, then heated and simmered for a short time before being cooled and served or stored.

History of Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce

Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce, also known as Carolina Gold, is a barbecue sauce with a rich history. While there is no definitive record of its origin, it is widely accepted that the sauce originated in South Carolina, specifically in the Midlands to the Lowcountry region. The first mustard barbecue sauce recipe was likely created in rural Orangeburg County near Charleston in the early 1930s. The sauce is believed to have been created by a farmer with eleven children named Joe Bessinger, who sold one of his cows and used the money to open the Holly Hill Café in Holly Hill, South Carolina, in 1939. However, there is also evidence that the Sweatman family, who owned a barbecue restaurant in the same town, may have invented the sauce around 1900. According to David Bessinger, grandson of Joe Bessinger, the two families may have collaborated on the creation of the sauce.

The German Connection

There is speculation that the Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce emerged from the descendants of German immigrants, as Germans are known for their love of mustard and smoked pork. South Carolina has a strong German heritage, and many BBQ joints in the state have German-sounding names. However, food historian Robert F. Moss argues against this theory, stating that German ancestry is also prevalent in Texas, where a different type of barbecue sauce is popular.

The Spread of Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce

The Bessinger family played a significant role in popularizing the sauce. Joe Bessinger's sons learned to cook whole hogs and make their father's signature sauce. They went on to open their own barbecue restaurants, serving their versions of the original "Carolina Gold" sauce. By the late 1970s, the sauce had spread across South Carolina and even reached neighbouring states. Today, Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce can be found in various parts of the South, and it continues to be a beloved staple in the region.

How to Make Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce

Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce, also known as Carolina Gold, is a sauce with a rich history, originating in South Carolina. It is made using mustard, vinegar, a sweetener, and spices, giving it a unique, sharp taste and a rich golden colour.

Ingredients:

• Yellow Mustard
• Apple Cider Vinegar (or White Vinegar)
• Honey (optional)
• Brown Sugar
• Ketchup
• Worcestershire Sauce
• Seasonings (garlic powder, cayenne, salt, paprika)
• Hot Sauce (optional)

Method:

Combine all the ingredients in a mixing bowl and whisk until smooth. Then, add the mixture to a small pot and simmer for around 5-10 minutes. Remove from the heat and let it cool.

Once cooled, pour the sauce into a jar, cover, and refrigerate. It is recommended to let the sauce sit for at least a day to allow the flavours to blend.

The sauce can be served warm or straight out of the refrigerator. It is delicious with pulled pork, grilled chicken, pork chops, or ribs.

Variations:

You can adjust the measurements of the ingredients to your preference. For a spicier sauce, add extra cayenne pepper or introduce some chilli flakes. For a milder version, omit the cayenne and focus on the other ingredients. You can also experiment with different types of mustard to change the flavour profile.

What Does Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce Taste Like?

Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce is a sweet, tangy, and sour sauce with a sharp mustard flavour. It is made with mustard, vinegar, a sweetener, and spices, and originated in South Carolina. The mustard and vinegar give the sauce its distinctive sharp taste and rich golden colour.

The sauce is particularly good with grilled meats, such as pork and chicken, and can be adjusted to add a little heat. The mustard provides a tangy base, balanced with sweetness from the brown sugar and honey, and a slight bite from the hot sauce. The apple cider vinegar adds a further tang and zing to the sauce.

The sauce is easy to make and most of the ingredients are pantry staples. The mustard is the key ingredient, and only classic yellow mustard will do. The sauce is best made a day ahead to allow the flavours to mingle. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three months.

Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce is a versatile condiment that can be used as a sauce, a dip, or a drizzle on grilled meats, sandwiches, and even chicken nuggets. It is a unique and tasty alternative to traditional tomato-based barbecue sauces.

What to Serve with Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce

Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce is a tangy, sweet, and sour sauce that goes well with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas on what to serve with this delicious sauce:

Pulled Pork Sandwich

One of the most popular ways to enjoy Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce is by pairing it with pulled pork. The sauce adds a tangy and sweet dimension to the tender, smoky pulled pork. Serve the pulled pork on a soft bun, topped with crunchy coleslaw, and a generous drizzle of the mustard BBQ sauce. This combination creates a perfect balance of flavours and textures.

Grilled or Smoked Meats

The sharpness of the mustard and the tanginess of the vinegar in the Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce make it an ideal condiment for grilled or smoked meats. Try brushing the sauce on grilled pork chops or chicken to add a burst of flavour. For a heartier meal, smoke a pork shoulder or pork ribs and generously smother them with the sauce. The sauce will enhance the flavour of the meat and keep it moist and juicy.

Burgers

If you're looking for a change from the usual ketchup or mayonnaise on your burgers, Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce is a great option. Its unique flavour will elevate your burger, giving it a tangy and sweet kick. You can also use it as a dipping sauce on the side for those who want to add an extra punch to their burger.

Chicken Sandwiches or Nuggets

Take your chicken sandwiches or nuggets to the next level by adding Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce. The sauce's sweet and tangy flavours complement the chicken perfectly. You can also dip your chicken nuggets in the sauce for a delicious snack or appetizer.

Ribs

Whether you're grilling or smoking them, ribs and Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce are a match made in heaven. The sauce clings beautifully to the ribs, enhancing their flavour and giving them a gorgeous golden glaze. The sharpness of the mustard and the tanginess of the vinegar will cut through the richness of the ribs, making every bite irresistible.

Fries

For a unique twist on a classic side dish, serve French fries with a side of Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce for dipping. The sauce's sweet and tangy flavours will complement the crispness of the fries, making them even more addictive.

Frequently asked questions