To a medium saucepan, heat olive oil. Add minced garlic and onion. Cook until the onions are translucent, about 8-10 minutes.
Add whole cranberries, tomato sauce, honey, soy sauce, spices, and TABASCO® Sauce; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer until sauce thickens slightly, about 20 minutes.
Stir in the apple cider vinegar; and add salt and pepper to taste.
Using an immersion blender, mix until all ingredients are smooth. You can also use a blender, or food processor. Can be made in advance.
When ready to make meatballs: add meatballs to slow-cooker. Add in BBQ sauce; Cook on LOW for 5-6 hours, or HIGH 2-3 hours.
Notes
makes approx 50 meatballs; nutrition facts are for 1 meatball