Discover the bold, tangy flavor of Carolina Mustard Gold BBQ Sauce, a Southern staple packed with zesty charm.
This golden blend, also known as Carolina Gold Mustard BBQ Sauce, hails from South Carolina and brings a mouthwatering balance of sweet, spicy, and vinegar notes.
Whether you’re searching for the best Carolina Mustard BBQ sauce or craving a true South Carolina Gold Mustard BBQ Sauce experience, this Carolina Gold recipe delivers classic flavor perfect for grilling, dipping, or marinating.
How To Make Carolina Mustard Gold BBQ Sauce?
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Course: Sauce
Cuisine: American
Yield: About 1 cup
Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small jar or bottle for storage
Ingredients
- ¾ cup yellow mustard
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt to taste

Instructions
1: Build the Bold Base
In a medium saucepan, add yellow mustard and apple cider vinegar. Stir them together over low heat to create a tangy.
2: Sweeten the Sauce
Add in brown sugar, honey, and ketchup. Whisk until everything is smooth and well combined, creating a rich golden glaze.
3: Layer the Flavor
Mix in Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and hot sauce. For an extra kick, sprinkle in cayenne pepper (optional). Stir well to blend the flavors.
4: Simmer and Season
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Let it cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it slightly thickens. Taste and add salt as needed to balance the flavor.
5: Cool and Bottle
Remove the sauce from the heat and allow it to cool. Transfer to a jar or squeeze bottle.
Nutrition Facts Of Carolina Mustard Gold BBQ Sauce
- Calories: 60
- Carbohydrate: 15 g
- Sugars: 12 g
- Fat: 1g
- Protein: 1.5g
Which Goes Best With Carolina Mustard Gold BBQ Sauce?
𖧷 Pulled Pork Perfection: Drizzle it generously over pulled pork sandwiches for a tangy, bold flavor that cuts through the richness of the meat.
𖧷 Grilled Chicken Glaze: Brush it on grilled or smoked chicken during the last few minutes of cooking for a golden, flavorful glaze.
𖧷 Burger Booster: Use it as a zesty burger condiment in place of ketchup or mustard for a Southern twist.
𖧷 Sandwiches: Layer it on coleslaw sandwiches or sliders to enhance crunch and bring a sweet-heat tang.
Tips & Variations
☆ Adjust the Heat: Add more cayenne or hot sauce if you like it spicy or leave it out for a milder version.
☆ Try Citrus Twists: Swap vinegar with lemon or orange juice for a brighter, fruitier flavor profile.
☆ Sweeten to Taste: Use maple syrup or molasses instead of honey for deeper, richer sweetness.
☆ Fresh Flavor Boost: Add freshly minced garlic or onion for a more intense, savory kick.
☆ Store Smart: Keep in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to 2 weeks—flavors get better over time.
To make the sauce thicker, you can use cornstarch.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is it different from regular BBQ sauce?
Unlike tomato-based sauces, it uses yellow mustard as the base, giving it a distinct flavor and color.
Can I use Dijon mustard instead of yellow mustard?
Yes, but it will have a sharper taste. Yellow mustard is traditional.
How long does it last in the fridge?
Stored properly, it can last up to 2 weeks in a sealed container.
Can I freeze Carolina Gold BBQ sauce?
Yes, it freezes well. Thaw in the fridge before using.
Can I use it as a marinade?
Sure! It works great as a marinade or a glaze before grilling.
Conclusion
I created this Carolina Mustard Gold BBQ Sauce recipe to bring the tangy, rich flavor of South Carolina into your kitchen.
It adapts well to your spice level, sweetness preference, and even the meal you serve it with. Try it on pulled pork, chicken, or veggies.

Carolina Mustard Gold BBQ Sauce
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small jar or bottle for storage
Ingredients
- ¾ cup yellow mustard
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for heat
- Salt to taste
Instructions
In a medium saucepan, add yellow mustard and apple cider vinegar. Stir them together over low heat to create a tangy.
Add in brown sugar, honey, and ketchup. Whisk until everything is smooth and well combined, creating a rich golden glaze.
Mix in Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and hot sauce. For an extra kick, sprinkle in cayenne pepper (optional). Stir well to blend the flavors.
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Let it cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it slightly thickens. Taste and add salt as needed to balance the flavor.
Remove the sauce from the heat and allow it to cool. Transfer to a jar or squeeze bottle.
Notes

Welcome to Arora’s Sauce Recipe, where every drop tells a story of tradition, innovation, and a boundless love for culinary arts. My name is Brazen, and I am the founder and chief sauce creator at Arora’s Kitchen. Born into a family with a rich heritage of culinary arts, I grew up surrounded by the aromas of spices and the sounds of simmering pots, which ignited my passion for cooking from a young age.
Inspired by generations of culinary expertise, I embarked on a professional quest to capture these fleeting aromas and flavors in bottles of sauce that could bring a gourmet experience to every meal.
As the founder of Arora’s Sauce Recipe, my mission is to inspire your culinary adventures with the finest sauces. Whether you’re a professional chef or a home cook, our sauces are crafted to elevate your cooking with every spoonful.
Thank you for choosing Arora’s Sauce Recipe. Here’s to a journey filled with flavor, passion, and unforgettable meals.