Get ready to transform your backyard barbecue from ordinary to extraordinary with this mouthwatering Slow Cooker Carolina BBQ Sauce that promises to tantalize your taste buds and make your guests beg for your secret recipe! This authentic American-style sauce combines the perfect balance of tangy vinegar, sweet brown sugar, and a subtle kick of red pepper flakes, creating a condiment so irresistible, you'll want to drizzle it on everything from pulled pork to grilled chicken.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 3 cups
Ingredients
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine apple cider vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and red pepper flakes.
- Whisk all ingredients together until thoroughly blended and the brown sugar is completely dissolved.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper, adjusting to your preferred taste level.
- Transfer the sauce mixture into a slow cooker, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat setting.
- Allow the sauce to simmer and develop flavors for approximately 4 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- After 4 hours, check the sauce consistency. If you prefer a thicker sauce, leave the lid off for the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate.
- Once cooking is complete, remove from heat and let the sauce cool for 15-20 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender or transfer to a standard blender to puree the sauce until smooth, if desired.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Tips
- • For the most authentic Carolina BBQ flavor, use high-quality apple cider vinegar as your base • Stir the sauce occasionally during slow cooking to prevent any burning or sticking • If you prefer a smoother sauce, definitely use an immersion blender for a silky-smooth consistency • Adjust red pepper flakes to control the heat level - start small and taste as you go • The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, allowing flavors to develop even more • Consider making a double batch and freezing portions for future use • For extra depth, try adding a splash of bourbon or dark rum during the cooking process
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 30kcal
Carbohydrates: 7g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
