carolina pulled pork recipe

The Best carolina pulled pork recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite Carolina pulled pork recipe. I’ve been making this dish for years, and it’s always a hit with my family and friends.

The rich, tangy flavor of the barbecue sauce, combined with the tender, juicy pork, is just irresistible. And the best part?

It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques. As a busy mom, I love that I can throw this recipe together on a weeknight or make it for a special occasion like a holiday gathering or backyard BBQ.

Plus, it’s a great way to get everyone involved in the kitchen – my kids love helping me shred the pork and assemble the sandwiches. And let’s not forget the health benefits – with lean protein from the pork and plenty of veggies from the barbecue sauce, this recipe is a guilt-free treat for our family.

So grab your apron and let’s get started on making this delicious Carolina pulled pork recipe!

Carolina Pulled Pork Recipe

4.6 from 580 votes

A classic Carolina pulled pork recipe, slow-cooked with a tangy vinegar sauce, perfect for sandwiches or as a main dish. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time8 hrs
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time8 hrs 15 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pulled Pork

2.5 kg pork shoulder
1 tbsp salt
2 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp paprika
1 tbsp brown sugar

For the Sauce

1 cup apple cider vinegar
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup ketchup
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp hot sauce
1 tbsp brown sugar
2 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder.
2In a small bowl, mix salt, black pepper, paprika, and brown sugar.
3Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the pork shoulder.
4Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker.
5Cook on low for 8 hours.
6The pork is done when it is very tender and easily shreds with a fork.
7While the pork is cooking, prepare the sauce.
8In a mixing bowl, combine apple cider vinegar, water, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper.
9Mix well until the sugar is fully dissolved.
10Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
11Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and pour the sauce over it.
12Stir gently to combine.
13Allow the pork to soak in the sauce for at least 30 minutes before serving.
14Serve the pulled pork on buns with coleslaw or as a main dish with your favorite sides.

🔧Equipment

Slow cooker
Mixing bowl
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 7g❤️Cholesterol: 120mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 6g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 38g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spicier pulled pork, add more hot sauce to the sauce mixture. You can also add chopped onions or bell peppers to the slow cooker for added flavor.

Carolina pulled pork is a recipe that never disappoints. It’s perfect for any occasion, from a casual family dinner to a large gathering.

This recipe is always a good idea for any occasion. It can be easily customized to suit your preferences and dietary needs.

Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover pork. It’s a dish that brings people together and creates lasting memories.

The combination of tender, flavorful pork and tangy sauce is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Carolina Pulled Pork

1. What cut of pork is best for Carolina pulled pork?

The best cut of pork for this recipe is the pork shoulder or pork butt. These cuts have a good amount of fat and connective tissue, which makes them perfect for slow cooking. The fat and connective tissue break down during the cooking process, resulting in tender and juicy meat.

2. Can I use a different type of vinegar for the sauce?

While white vinegar is traditional for Carolina pulled pork, you can experiment with other types of vinegar such as apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar. Each type of vinegar will give a slightly different flavor profile to the sauce. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be different, but it can still be delicious.

3. How long can I store leftover Carolina pulled pork?

Leftover Carolina pulled pork can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a little bit of moisture to prevent the pork from drying out.

4. Can I make Carolina pulled pork in the oven?

Yes, you can make Carolina pulled pork in the oven. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and cook the pork for about 4-5 hours, or until it’s tender and easily shreddable. You can also use a Dutch oven or a slow cooker for this recipe. The key is to cook it low and slow.

5. What sides go well with Carolina pulled pork?

Carolina pulled pork pairs well with a variety of sides. Classic options include coleslaw, baked beans, and cornbread. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. The tangy flavor of the pork complements many different dishes, making it a versatile option for any meal.

Similar Posts