north carolina barbecue recipe

The Best north carolina barbecue recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my family’s favorite North Carolina barbecue recipe. This recipe has been passed down for generations, and it’s a staple in our household. The rich, tangy flavor of the barbecue sauce is just irresistible, and it’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether we’re having a big family gathering or just a casual dinner at home, this recipe always hits the spot. I love how the tender pork is smothered in that delicious sauce, and the way it makes everyone feel like they’re part of something special. My kids can’t get enough of it, and neither can my husband.

It’s a recipe that never fails to impress, and I’m sure it will become a favorite in your household too. One of the things I love about this recipe is the way it brings people together. There’s something about sharing a meal that just feels so special, and this barbecue is the perfect choice for any gathering.

We’ve had it at birthday parties, holiday dinners, and even just regular Tuesday nights, and it’s always a hit. I think what really sets this recipe apart is the technique involved in making the barbecue sauce from scratch. It’s not just about throwing some ingredients together – there’s an art to getting that perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors.

And when you take that first bite… well, let’s just say it’s pure magic.

North Carolina Pulled Pork Barbecue

4.8 from 1645 votes

A classic North Carolina pulled pork barbecue recipe, slow-cooked and tossed in a vinegar-based sauce, perfect for sandwiches or on its own. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time8 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time8 hours 20 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pulled Pork

2 kg pork shoulder
1 tbsp salt
1 tbsp black pepper
1 tbsp paprika

For the Vinegar Sauce

1 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp red pepper flakes
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp salt

For Serving

Buns
Coleslaw

Equipment

Slow cooker
Mixing bowl
Fork
Knife

👨‍🍳Directions

1Season the pork shoulder with salt, black pepper, and paprika, rubbing the spices evenly over the entire surface.
2Let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes to allow the seasoning to adhere to the meat.
3Place the seasoned pork shoulder in the slow cooker.
4Cook on low heat for 8 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5The internal temperature should reach 190°F (88°C).
6Remove the pork from the slow cooker and transfer it to a large bowl.
7Use two forks to shred the pork, discarding any large pieces of fat.
8Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and discard any excess liquid.
9In a mixing bowl, combine apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, brown sugar, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and salt.
10Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.
11Pour the vinegar sauce over the shredded pork in the slow cooker and mix well, ensuring the pork is evenly coated with the sauce.
12Serve the pulled pork on buns with coleslaw, or enjoy it on its own.
13The pulled pork should be moist and flavorful, with a tangy vinegar kick.
14Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board
Cooking pan or pot
Spatula or wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 7g❤️Cholesterol: 110mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 10g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 35g

📝Notes

Tips: For added flavor, you can add chopped onions and bell peppers to the slow cooker while cooking the pork.

Watch Video Of How North Carolina Pulled Pork Barbecue Works

This North Carolina-style barbecue recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or just need something easy and comforting for dinner tonight.

The leftovers will keep well in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for up to two months – reheat them by slowly cooking them over low heat until warmed through.

Serve with some crusty bread or over rice for an authentic Southern experience.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About North Carolina Pulled Pork Barbecue

Q: What makes North Carolina-style barbecue so unique?

A: The distinctive flavor of North Carolina-style barbecue comes from the use of vinegar-based sauces, which give it a tangy taste that’s different from other regional styles. The pork is typically slow-cooked over wood or charcoal to give it that smoky flavor.

Q: Can I use pre-made barbecue sauce instead of making my own?

A: While you can use store-bought sauce as a substitute, I highly recommend making your own sauce from scratch for the best flavor.

Q: What type of wood should I use for smoking my barbecue?

A: Traditionally, North Carolina pitmasters have used hickory or oak wood for smoking their ‘cue – these woods impart a rich, smoky flavor to the meat.

Q: How long does it take to cook a whole pig over an open flame?

A: Cooking a whole pig takes several hours – usually around 8-10 hours – depending on its size and the temperature of your smoker.

Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

A: While traditional North Carolina-style barbecue features pork as its main ingredient, you can easily adapt this recipe to use portobello mushrooms or other vegetarian options for a delicious vegan alternative.

Similar Posts