Gf Carolina Bbq Recipe

Prepare and combine

Measure all ingredients. In a medium saucepan off the heat, whisk together 1 cup apple cider vinegar, 1 cup cold water, 1/2 cup packed brown sugar, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1/4 cup Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons yellow mustard, 2 tablespoons honey and 1 tablespoon gluten-free Worcestershire sauce until the mustards and sugars are dissolved and the mixture looks uniform.

Season

Add 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon ground black pepper, 1 teaspoon fine sea salt, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder and 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes to the pan. Whisk thoroughly to incorporate so there are no lumps of dry spices.

Adjust sweetness (optional)

If you prefer a slightly sweeter Carolina sauce, whisk in 1/4 cup apple juice. Taste and adjust: add up to 1 tablespoon more honey or brown sugar for more sweetness, or an extra tablespoon of vinegar for more tang, keeping it gluten-free.

Cook gently

Place the saucepan over medium-low heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Once simmering, reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 10–12 minutes, uncovered, stirring every 1–2 minutes. The sauce should slightly thicken and the flavors will mellow and meld.

Finish

Remove the pan from heat. For a very smooth sauce, pass it through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl, pressing solids with a spoon. Whisk in 1 teaspoon neutral oil (or melted butter if not strictly dairy-free) to add sheen and mouthfeel. Taste and adjust salt, sugar, or vinegar if needed.

Cool and store

Allow the sauce to cool to room temperature, then transfer to a clean jar or airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours (preferably overnight) to let flavors develop. Sauce will keep refrigerated for up to 2 weeks. Reheat gently before using as a warm glaze, or serve cold as a condiment.

Serving suggestions

Use as a mop or finishing glaze for pork shoulder, pulled pork, grilled chicken or smoked tofu. Shake or stir before using; thin with a tablespoon of water or apple juice if too thick for brushing.