Known around here as ‘Santa’s BBQ Delight’—it’s so good, even the elves asked for seconds!

For the BBQ Sauce (Santa-Style):

• 1 cup ketchup

• ½ cup brown sugar

• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar

• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• ½ tsp nutmeg

• ½ tsp ground cloves (gives it that holiday warmth)

• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (for a little kick)

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley, chopped

• Toasted sesame seeds

• Crispy fried onions

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Season the Meat

1. Pat the pork shoulder or brisket dry with paper towels.

2. Rub the meat all over with olive oil.

3. Mix together salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Rub this spice blend evenly over the meat.

4. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors (overnight in the fridge is even better).

Step 2: Sear for Flavor

1. Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

2. Add a little oil and sear the meat on all sides until browned (about 3–4 minutes per side).

3. This locks in juices and builds a smoky base flavor for the BBQ delight.

Step 3: Make Santa’s Special BBQ Sauce

1. In a saucepan, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard.

2. Add cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and cayenne pepper.

3. Simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce thickens slightly and fills the kitchen with holiday aromas.

4. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice as you like.

Step 4: Slow Cook the Magic

1. Place the seared meat in a slow cooker (or Dutch oven if cooking in the oven).

2. Pour half of the BBQ sauce over the meat, saving the rest for later.

3. Cover and cook:

   • Slow Cooker: 6–8 hours on low, until fork-tender.

   • Oven: 3–4 hours at 300°F (150°C), covered, until the meat shreds easily.

Step 5: Shred & Glaze

1. Once the meat is cooked, shred it using two forks.

2. Pour in the remaining BBQ sauce and stir well to coat every bite.

3. Let it rest for 10 minutes so the flavors soak in.

Step 6: Serve Santa’s BBQ Delight

Serve the shredded BBQ meat on:

• Warm brioche buns for sliders (the elves’ favorite).

• Over creamy mashed potatoes for a cozy dinner.

• Next to roasted vegetables for a hearty holiday feast.

Garnish with parsley, sesame seeds, or crispy fried onions for extra cheer.

Extra Tips for Success

• Make Ahead: The BBQ meat tastes even better the next day, so you can prep it before holiday gatherings.

• Add Festive Touch: Mix in a spoonful of cranberry sauce to the BBQ glaze for a sweet-tart holiday twist.

• Smoky Upgrade: If you have a smoker, smoke the meat for 2 hours before slow-cooking.

Final Thoughts

Santa’s BBQ Delight is the perfect blend of smoky, sweet, and spiced flavors that bring holiday cheer to the table. It’s hearty enough to keep Santa fueled for his Christmas Eve journey—and so delicious that the elves always come back for seconds!

Would you like me to also create a fun holiday drink pairing (like a spiced cranberry punch) to go alongside Santa’s BBQ Delight, so the meal feels like a complete festive menu?