Carolina Gold is a type of barbecue sauce that originated in South Carolina and is a staple condiment in Carolina-style barbecue. It has a distinct mustard-based flavor that sets it apart from the tomato-based sauces commonly used in other regional barbecue styles.
A Brief History of Carolina Gold BBQ Sauce
Carolina Gold sauce has its roots in the colonial era when German immigrants brought mustard-based sauces to the Carolinas. The sauce evolved over time into a unique blend using yellow mustard as the base along with vinegar, spices, and other ingredients.
It became known as “Carolina Gold” in the 1980s when the first mass-produced version was introduced by the South Carolina-based company Carolina Treet. The name refers to a type of Southern yellow mustard that gives the sauce its golden color.
What Makes Carolina Gold Sauce Unique
Here are some of the key features that distinguish Carolina Gold BBQ sauce:
- Mustard base – Yellow mustard is the primary ingredient, providing tanginess and zest. Other popular BBQ sauces use tomatoes.
- Vinegar addition – Cider vinegar and/or white vinegar adds a tart, acidic element that balances the spice.
- Spicy flavor – Seasonings like black pepper, red pepper flakes, paprika, and cayenne give it a warm, mild heat.
- Touch of sweetness – Molasses, honey, or brown sugar add subtle sweet undertones. The sweetness is minimal compared to thicker, sweeter sauces.
- Thin consistency – Carolina Gold sauce has a thin, smooth texture and easily coats meat without overpowering the natural flavors.
TheFlavor Profile of Carolina Gold Sauce
When you taste Carolina Gold BBQ sauce, you’ll notice that it has a complex blend of several flavors:
- Upfront tang from the vinegar
- A mustard spiciness, often accompanied by other peppers
- Mild sweetness in the background
- Savory umami richness from spices like paprika
- A subtle smoky flavor from ingredients like Worcestershire sauce
The mustard doesn’t overpower the way that tomato would in a ketchup-based sauce. The spices add vibrancy without making it too hot for most palates. Overall, it has a bright, well-balanced flavor profile.
Uses for Carolina Gold BBQ Sauce
Carolina Gold sauce has many versatile uses:
- Pork BBQ – It’s the classic sauce for pulled pork sandwiches and ribs in the Carolinas. The mustard complements the pork beautifully.
- Chicken – Brushed on grilled or baked chicken, it adds delicious flavor. Its thin consistency prevents chicken from getting too soggy.
- Brisket – Carolina Gold pairs well with smoked brisket, adding tang and spice.
- Vegetables – Use as a marinade or dip for grilled veggies like zucchini, eggplant, onions, etc.
- Sandwich/burger spread – Brighten up a plain sandwich or burger with a bit of Carolina Gold.
- Cooking ingredient – Add a dash to recipes like potato salad, deviled eggs, baked beans, etc.
The versatility comes from the balance of flavors – it can complement meats, veggies, and more without overshadowing them. A little bit goes a long way.
Popular Brands of Carolina Gold Sauce
While it’s easy to make homemade Carolina Gold sauce, these are some of the major bottled brands:
- Carolina Treet – The original mass-produced version, introduced in the 1980s. They helped popularize the name “Carolina Gold.”
- Maurice’s – A popular brand since the 1940s known for more onion and spice flavor.
- South Carolina BBQ – Made by the Scott family, their version is calmer and less spicy.
- Sweet Baby Ray’s – This national brand makes a line of Carolina Gold that stays true to the tangy mustard base.
- Duke’s – Duke’s Mayo also produces a pre-made Carolina Gold sauce sold in stores across the Eastern US.
When buying a bottle, check the ingredients for mustard as the first ingredient and minimal thickeners or preservatives.
How toMake Authentic Carolina Gold at Home
Making your own Carolina Gold BBQ sauce at home is easy. Here is an authentic recipe to try:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup yellow mustard
- 1/2 cup cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (Texas Pete or Tabasco)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions:
- Whisk together all ingredients in a bowl until thoroughly combined.
- Let the sauce sit for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to meld.
- Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 weeks.
The great thing about this recipe is that you likely have most of the ingredients on hand already. Feel free to adjust ingredients like hot sauce, vinegar, and spices based on your tastes. It’s meant to be customized!
How to Use Carolina Gold Sauce
Once you have your Carolina Gold sauce ready, here are some tips for putting it to delicious use:
- Smother it – Generously brush, slather, or pour the sauce all over meat during the last few minutes of grilling, smoking, or roasting.
- Dip it – Serve the sauce on the side in bowls for dipping smoked sausage, chicken wings, fries, and more.
- Drizzle it – Lightly drizzle the sauce over plated meats, sandwiches, salads, and other dishes. A little bit goes a long way!
- Marinate with it – Use as part of a marinade for pork, chicken, and even shrimp or fish. The acidic sauce tenderizes.
- Spice it up – For bolder flavor, mix in extra spices, peppers, onions, garlic, or other herbs. Make it your own!
Mastering Carolina Gold BBQ sauce unlocks a whole new world of Southern-inspired cooking. So grab a bottle or whip up a batch and get ready to enjoy the flavors that make this style of BBQ sauce a true treasure.
Frequently Asked Questions About Carolina Gold BBQ Sauce
1. What types of mustard are used in Carolina Gold sauce?
Most Carolina Gold sauces use a bright yellow mustard as the base. Yellow mustards commonly used include South Carolina Mustard, Creole Mustard, and Yellow Ballpark Mustard. Spicier brown mustards are sometimes blended in as well.
2. Is Carolina Gold the same as Honey Mustard?
No, they are different sauces. Carolina Gold contains mustard for tang along with vinegar, spices, and minimal sweetness. Honey mustard is sweeter and thicker with a more pronounced honey flavor.
3. What makes it yellow compared to other BBQ sauces?
The yellow color comes from the use of actual yellow mustard as the main ingredient. Other popular BBQ sauces get their red hue from tomato puree, ketchup, or chili powder.
4. Where is the best place to try authentic Carolina Gold?
You’ll find it served alongside pork BBQ all over the Carolinas. Cities like Charleston and Columbia have many traditional BBQ joints that use the time-honored sauce.
5. Can I make it spicier or milder?
Absolutely. Adjust the amounts of hot sauce, black pepper, and cayenne according to your preferred spice level. You can also use spicy brown mustard.
Conclusion
Carolina Gold BBQ sauce is a unique Southern condiment with a tangy, mustard-forward flavor. Originating in South Carolina, it diverges from the tomato-heavy sauces of other barbecue regions. Its hallmark ingredients like bright yellow mustard, cider vinegar, and lively spices create a balanced, mildly spicy, and irresistible flavor profile. Beyond pulled pork, it can liven up a wide variety of proteins, veggies, sandwiches, and other dishes. Try this quintessential southern sauce to give your BBQ a delightful and addicting twist.