When it comes to barbecue, the sauce is just as important as the meat. Carolina-Style Barbecue Sauce is a standout with its tangy, vinegar-forward flavor and mustard base, setting it apart from the sweeter sauces found elsewhere in the U.S. This zesty, smoky sauce is perfect for pulled pork, grilled chicken, or as a dipping sauce for fries and vegetables. With its thin consistency and bold taste, it’s a must-have for any barbecue enthusiast.
Prep & Cook Times
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Serving Size: Makes approximately 2 cups
Ingredients
- 1 cup yellow mustard
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup light brown sugar
- ¾ cup cider vinegar
- ¼ cup water
- 2 tbsp mild chili powder
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp freshly ground white pepper
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp hickory-flavored liquid smoke
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine yellow mustard, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, cider vinegar, water, chili powder, black pepper, white pepper, and cayenne (if using). Simmer over low heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugars and meld the flavors.
- Stir in the soy sauce, unsalted butter, and liquid smoke. Continue to simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing the butter to melt and the flavors to develop fully.
- Remove the sauce from heat and let it cool for 10-15 minutes before using. Serve as a drizzle, brush-on sauce, or dipping sauce.
What to Serve It With
- Pulled Pork: A classic pairing for Carolina-style slow-cooked pork.
- Grilled Chicken: Brush it over chicken thighs or drumsticks for extra flavor.
- Fries & Potatoes: Use as a zesty dipping sauce for fries or roasted potatoes.
- Grilled Vegetables: Adds smoky depth to corn, peppers, or zucchini.
Tips for Success
- Control the Heat: Adjust the cayenne pepper for your preferred spice level. Omit for a milder sauce.
- Use Liquid Smoke Sparingly: Start with 1 tbsp and add more if desired. A little goes a long way.
- Storage: Keep leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. The flavors intensify over time!
Why Carolina-Style Barbecue Sauce?
Unlike thick, sweet barbecue sauces, Carolina-style sauce is light and tangy, designed to enhance the meat's flavor without overpowering it. The vinegar base cuts through the richness of fatty meats, while the mustard and spices add complexity. Perfect for barbecue enthusiasts and newcomers alike, this sauce is a true taste of the Carolinas.
Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Airtight container for storage
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stove over low heat or use straight from the fridge.
Call to Action
Transform your barbecue game with this Carolina-Style Barbecue Sauce! Tangy, smoky, and perfect for pulled pork, grilled chicken, and more. Try it today and share your creations on social media using #UnkiesSeasoning for a chance to be featured.