Slow-cooked BBQ goat neck on a plate with barbecue sauce

Tender and Flavorful Slow-Cooked BBQ Goat Neck

Tender and Flavorful Slow-Cooked BBQ Goat Neck
mediumstar
5 hour 30 mintime

Nutritional value per serving

Calories650kcal

Carbs10gram

Fat35gram

Protein55gram

Ingredients

Quantity
  • Goat neck (bone-in)1.5 kg
  • BBQ dry rub (store-bought or homemade)3 tbsp
  • BBQ sauce0.5 cup
  • Olive oil2 tbsp
  • Garlic cloves (minced)3 pieces
  • Onion (sliced)1 medium
  • Salt1.5 tsp
  • Black pepper (freshly ground)1 tsp
  • Apple cider vinegar2 tbsp
  • Water or beef broth1 cup

Discover the art of slow cooking goat neck to create tender, juicy, and flavorful BBQ that melts in your mouth. This recipe guides you through selecting the right cuts, seasoning, and slow cooking with simple ingredients and kitchen tools. The total ingredient cost is approximately $18 USD / 16 EUR / 14 GBP / 1500 INR. The dish provides about 650 calories per serving, is suitable for meat lovers, and involves a medium level of cooking difficulty. The preparation and cooking combined take roughly 6 hours, with most of this time being passive slow cooking, making it perfect for a relaxed weekend meal. Food safety is emphasized with proper handling and cooking to a recommended internal temperature to ensure delicious and safe eating.

Preparation instructions

Prepare the goat neck

1Start by patting the goat neck dry with paper towels. This helps the rub stick better and promotes browning.

Apply the dry rub and marinate

2Mix the BBQ dry rub with salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Rub this mixture all over the goat neck, massaging it into the meat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, up to overnight, for maximum flavor penetration.

Preheat and prepare for slow cooking

3Remove the goat neck from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature—this ensures even cooking. Heat olive oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat.

Brown the meat

4Sear the goat neck on all sides until browned (about 3-4 minutes per side). Browning locks in juices and enhances flavor.

Slow cook the goat neck

5Place the browned goat neck in a slow cooker or a heavy, oven-safe pot. Add onion slices, apple cider vinegar, and water or beef broth. Cover and cook on low heat for 5 to 6 hours until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.

Check internal temperature

6Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the thickest part of the meat. Goat should reach at least 74°C (165°F) for safe consumption. The meat should be fork-tender and falling off the bone.

Add BBQ sauce and finish cooking

7Brush BBQ sauce over the meat during the last 30 minutes of cooking to caramelize the sauce and add a smoky sweetness.

Rest and serve

8Remove the goat neck from the cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.

Cooking Tips

1If you don't have a slow cooker, you can use an oven-safe pot with a lid and cook at 140°C (285°F) for 5-6 hours.

2Avoid cross-contamination by using separate cutting boards and utensils for raw meat and other ingredients. Wash your hands and surfaces thoroughly after handling raw meat.

3For more flavor, add herbs such as thyme or rosemary to the slow cooker.

4Use a quality meat thermometer to ensure goat neck reaches the safe internal temperature.

Equipment Needed

  • Slow cooker or heavy oven-safe pot with lid
  • Skillet for browning
  • Meat thermometer
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Basting brush

Grocery Shopping List

  • [ ] Goat neck (1.5 kg) – Approx. $12.50. Choose fresh, firm meat with no off-odor.
  • [ ] BBQ dry rub (3 tbsp) – Approx. $1.00. Opt for a blend without added sugar for healthier cooking.
  • [ ] BBQ sauce (0.5 cup) – Approx. $2.00. Pick your favorite tangy or smoky flavor.
  • [ ] Olive oil (2 tbsp) – Approx. $0.50. Extra virgin for best flavor.
  • [ ] Garlic cloves (3 pieces) – Approx. $0.50. Choose firm, unblemished bulbs.
  • [ ] Onion (1 medium) – Approx. $0.30. Pick firm, dry-skinned onions.
  • [ ] Salt and black pepper – Approx. $0.20 (small quantities).
  • [ ] Apple cider vinegar (2 tbsp) – Approx. $0.50. Use filtered for best taste.
  • [ ] Beef broth or water (1 cup) – Approx. $0.50 for broth. Choose low sodium if available.

Total Approximate Cost: $18.00

Tips: Look for fresh ingredients with good color and smell to ensure the best flavor in your dish.

FAQ

How do I know when the goat neck is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach at least 74°C (165°F). The meat should also be tender and easily pull away from the bone.

Can I cook goat neck without a slow cooker?

Yes, use an oven-safe pot with a lid and cook in the oven at 140°C (285°F) for 5-6 hours.

How do I avoid foodborne illness when cooking goat neck?

Always wash your hands and utensils after handling raw meat, use separate cutting boards for meat and vegetables, and cook the meat to the recommended internal temperature.

Can I substitute goat neck with another cut?

Yes, lamb neck or goat shoulder could be used but cooking times may vary slightly.