Slow Cooker Carolina BBQ

Name: Slow Cooker Carolina BBQ
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 720 min
Total time: 735 min
Ingredients: 5 pounds of pork shoulder roast with bone; 1 tablespoon of kosher salt; ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper (, or adjust to taste); 1 ½ cups of apple cider vinegar; 2 tablespoons of brown sugar; 1 ½ tablespoons of hot pepper sauce; 2 teaspoons of cayenne pepper; 2 teaspoons of crushed red pepper flakes

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Slow Cooker Carolina BBQ

Have you ever craved a mouthwatering, fall-off-the-bone barbecue without the hassle of tending to a grill for hours? Look no further than the slow cooker! In this article, we will explore the art of making Carolina BBQ in a slow cooker. Get ready to indulge in tender, juicy meat coated with a tangy and flavorful sauce that will leave your taste buds dancing.

The Magic of Slow Cooking

Slow cooking is like a symphony that unfolds gradually, building anticipation with each passing hour. Just imagine the tantalizing aroma that fills your home as the meat simmers slowly, absorbing all the delicious flavors. It’s like a melody that draws you in, making your mouth water in anticipation.

With a slow cooker, you can achieve that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness without constantly tending to a grill. The low and slow method allows the meat to cook slowly over several hours, resulting in a texture that is out of this world.

Unleashing the Flavors of Carolina BBQ

Carolina BBQ is known for its unique flavor profile that combines tanginess, sweetness, and a hint of spice. The secret lies in the special blend of ingredients used in the sauce. Vinegar, mustard, brown sugar, and spices come together to create a harmonious symphony of flavors that perfectly complement the slow-cooked meat.

Just like a great barbecue sauce, life is all about balance. Carolina BBQ strikes the perfect balance between tangy and sweet, just like the ups and downs we experience in our daily lives. It’s a reminder that even in the face of challenges, there is always something delicious waiting to be savored.

Preparing Your Slow Cooker Carolina BBQ

Now that you’re ready to embark on this flavor-packed journey, let’s talk about how to prepare your slow cooker Carolina BBQ.

Step 1: Choose the Right Cut of Meat

The choice of meat is crucial when it comes to slow cooking. Opt for cuts that are known for their tenderness, such as pork shoulder or beef brisket. These cuts have a rich marbling of fat, which adds flavor and prevents the meat from drying out during the long cooking process.

Step 2: Seasoning and Browning

Before adding the meat to the slow cooker, season it generously with salt and pepper. You can also add other spices like paprika, garlic powder, or chili powder to enhance the flavor. To add depth and complexity, sear the meat in a hot skillet until it develops a beautiful golden-brown crust.

Step 3: Slow and Steady Cooking

Place the seared meat in the slow cooker and pour the Carolina BBQ sauce over it. Set the slow cooker to low heat and let the magic happen. The meat will slowly cook and absorb all the flavors from the sauce, resulting in a tender and succulent masterpiece.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use a different type of meat for Carolina BBQ?

A1: While pork shoulder and beef brisket are the traditional choices for Carolina BBQ, you can experiment with other cuts of meat like chicken or turkey. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary.

Q2: How long should I cook the meat in the slow cooker?

A2: The cooking time will depend on the size and type of meat you’re using. As a general rule of thumb, plan for around 8-10 hours on low heat for pork shoulder or beef brisket. You’ll know it’s ready when the meat easily pulls apart with a fork.

Q3: Can I make Carolina BBQ sauce from scratch?

A3: Absolutely! Making your own Carolina BBQ sauce allows you to customize the flavors to your liking. There are many recipes available online that you can try to create your own signature sauce.

Q4: Can I use a store-bought BBQ sauce for Carolina BBQ?

A4: While it’s best to make the Carolina BBQ sauce from scratch to achieve the authentic flavors, you can use a store-bought BBQ sauce as a shortcut. Just remember to add some vinegar and mustard to give it that signature tangy taste.

Q5: Can I cook Carolina BBQ on high heat?

A5: Slow cooking is all about low and slow heat. Cooking Carolina BBQ on high heat may result in tougher meat and less flavorful results. Patience is key when it comes to achieving that tender perfection.

Q6: Can I freeze leftover Carolina BBQ?

A6: Absolutely! Carolina BBQ freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container or freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.

Q7: What sides pair well with Carolina BBQ?

A7: Carolina BBQ is often served with coleslaw, baked beans, cornbread, and pickles. The tanginess of the BBQ sauce pairs perfectly with the creaminess of coleslaw and the sweetness of baked beans.

Q8: Can I make Carolina BBQ in an Instant Pot?

A8: While the Instant Pot is a versatile kitchen tool, it may not deliver the same depth of flavor and tenderness as a slow cooker. Slow cooking allows the meat to break down slowly, resulting in a more tender and flavorful outcome.

In Conclusion

Savoring a plate of slow cooker Carolina BBQ is like taking a journey through the flavors of the Carolinas. The tangy sauce, the tender meat, and the symphony of flavors all come together to create a culinary experience that will leave you craving for more.

So, next time you’re in the mood for a barbecue feast, let your slow cooker do the work. Sit back, relax, and let the magic unfold as your home fills with the irresistible aroma of slow cooker Carolina BBQ.

Slow Cooker Carolina BBQ

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 12

Total Time 12 15

Course dinner

Cuisine American

Servings

Ingredients

5 pounds of pork shoulder roast with bone
1 tablespoon of kosher salt
½ teaspoon of ground black pepper , or adjust to taste
1 ½ cups of apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons of brown sugar
1 ½ tablespoons of hot pepper sauce
2 teaspoons of cayenne pepper
2 teaspoons of crushed red pepper flakes

Instructions

Place the pork shoulder in a slow cooker and season it with salt and pepper.
Pour vinegar around the pork.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on Low for 12 hours.
The pork should be tender enough to easily pull apart into strands.
Remove the pork from the slow cooker and discard any bones.
Strain the liquid, keeping 2 cups and discarding any excess.
Shred the pork using tongs or two forks.
Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker.
In the reserved liquid, stir in brown sugar, hot pepper sauce, cayenne pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Mix the liquid mixture into the pork in the slow cooker.
Cover the slow cooker and keep it on the Low setting until serving.
Scoop the pork onto a white bun.
Garnish generously with your favorite coleslaw.