Carolina-Style Barbecue Sauce Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup yellow mustard
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt to taste

Special equipment needed: None

Step-by-step instructions:

1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce until well combined.

2. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and salt to taste. Whisk again until all the ingredients are well incorporated.

3. Transfer the sauce to a saucepan and bring it to a simmer over medium heat.

4. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

5. Remove the sauce from the heat and let it cool to room temperature.

6. Transfer the sauce to a jar or airtight container and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

20-25 minutes
Temperature: Medium heat
Serving size: Makes about 2 cups of sauce

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 40 per serving (1 tablespoon)
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 0g
- Sodium: 170mg

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Dijon mustard or spicy brown mustard can be used instead of yellow mustard.
- White wine vinegar or rice vinegar can be used instead of apple cider vinegar.
- Maple syrup or molasses can be used instead of honey.
- Light brown sugar or granulated sugar can be used instead of brown sugar.
- Any hot sauce of your choice can be used instead of the recommended one.

Variations:
- For a spicier sauce, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add some chopped jalapeno peppers.
- For a smokier flavor, use smoked sea salt instead of regular salt or add some liquid smoke.
- For a sweeter sauce, increase the amount of honey or brown sugar.

Tips and tricks:
- This sauce can be used as a marinade or a glaze for grilled or roasted meats, especially pork.
- It can also be used as a dipping sauce for chicken tenders or fried foods.
- Make sure to let the sauce cool down before storing it in the refrigerator.
- The sauce will thicken as it cools down, so you can adjust the consistency by adding more vinegar or water if needed.

Storage instructions:
- Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Reheating instructions:
- The sauce can be reheated in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave for a few seconds.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve the sauce in a small bowl or ramekin alongside your favorite barbecue dish.
- Drizzle the sauce over pulled pork sandwiches or grilled chicken breasts.

Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro can be sprinkled over the sauce for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairings:
- This sauce pairs well with grilled or roasted pork, chicken, or beef.
- It also goes well with baked beans, coleslaw, or potato salad.

Suggested side dishes:
- Cornbread, hush puppies, or biscuits make great side dishes for barbecue.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sauce is too thick, add more vinegar or water to thin it out.
- If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to use clean utensils and containers when preparing and storing the sauce.
- Keep the sauce refrigerated when not in use to prevent spoilage.

Food history:
- Carolina-style barbecue sauce is a traditional sauce from the southern United States, particularly the Carolinas.
- It is typically made with yellow mustard, vinegar, and spices, and is used as a marinade or a glaze for pork.

Flavor profiles:
- This sauce has a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy flavor profile, with a hint of smokiness from the paprika.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve the sauce at room temperature or slightly warmed up for the best flavor.

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Region: American

Taste: Tangy, Sweet, Spicy, Smoky, Aromatic