What is the desired outcome of low and slow cooking in barbecue?

The desired outcome of low and slow cooking in barbecue is to tenderize the meat and develop deep flavors. This method involves cooking meat at a low temperature for an extended period of time, which allows the collagen in tougher cuts to break down, resulting in a more tender and juicy texture. Additionally, the lengthy cooking process enables the flavors from the marinade, spices, and wood smoke to penetrate deeply into the meat, enhancing the overall taste profile.

This contrasts with quicker cooking methods that might emphasize speed but often fail to achieve the same level of tenderness or complex flavor development. In barbecue, the combination of low heat and time is crucial for creating the rich, savory qualities that are characteristic of well-prepared smoked meats.