Long ago, settlers brought pigs to the United States and left them to wander the wild. This climate where cattle perished was ideal for hogs, and therefore became the meat of the South. In this part of the world barbecue is synonymous with pork. Were you to mention beef barbecue in the Carolinas you are likely to be shown the door. Once the Texan has been shown the door over his pronouncements of the virtues of brisket, those left behind will most likely start a fight over all the variations of what is called the true barbecue.
Because this tradition is so old and each region has its own variations, it’s difficult to define exactly what pulled pork is. The most basic definition is pork cooked over a low smoky fire until it can be pulled apart with a fork. Sauces, rubs, cuts, woods, toppings, and serving style are all options. As you read on, you will learn about all of the variations and be able to determine for yourself which method and style is best for you.
Basic Pulled Pork
Southern style barbecue, at its most basic, is smoked pork. Because of the way it is prepared, it is commonly referred to as pulled pork. The smoked meat is typically pulled apart by hand, but it is also available sliced, shredded, or chopped. However, it is more than just a meal. One of the earliest definitions of barbecue is a gathering of people to share good food. These gatherings were frequently planned for political, religious, or social purposes.
Pulled Pork Overview
The simplest method of preparing pulled pork is to place a pork shoulder in your smoker. Cook until the internal temperature of the meat reaches 165°F, the safe temperature for pork. A higher internal temperature, on the other hand, will make the meat easier to pull and more tender. In the smoker, do not exceed 190 degrees F. Allow the meat to rest for at least 30 minutes. During this time, the temperature will continue to rise by up to 10 degrees Fahrenheit. By this point, the majority of the fat will have melted away, and the tough connective tissue known as collagen will have been broken down. The meat should be tender enough to pull apart with your hands. The tender meat is kept warm and served on a white bread bun with a table sauce for diners to add as they see fit. It’s typically served with coleslaw, either on the side or in the bun.
Moving from the general to the specific, you’ll need to learn a little about meat so you know what to buy and how to prepare it for the smoker. The smoke and the smoking process are simple with pork shoulder, but you must be aware of the time involved as well as the types and amount of smoke required. If you’re feeling fancy, there are plenty of great sauces to choose from to finish it off in style. The classic way to eat pulled pork is in a sandwich. It’s a delicious meal no matter how you prepare it, but there are some additions that make it even better. Once you’ve mastered the fundamentals, go over the recipes to familiarize yourself with all of the variations.
Texas-Style Pulled Pork
A nice southwestern style barbecue pulled pork recipe which can be eaten with or without the bun. Cooked in a slow cooker this barbecue style pork has its own sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours, 15 minutes
Ingredients
- 3 pounds boneless pork loin roast
- 1 8-ounces can tomato sauce
- 8 ounces green chilies, diced
- 1 cup barbecue sauce, store bought
- 1/2 onion, sliced
- 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
- 4 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- hot sauce to taste
Preparation
Best Pulled Pork Barbecue Ever
“Being from Texas, I was intrigued by the name of the dish. I made it for a baby shower. It was a huge hit! I had to email everyone the recipe. I am making it again today, but this time I am going to use a honey barbecue sauce instead of the classic sauce I used the first time. Although it would be difficult to improve on this recipe, I’m interested in seeing what the sweeter sauce does for the outcome.”
Crock-Pot Pulled Pork
Don’t have the equipment for real smoked pulled pork sandwiches? This slow cooker recipe may not be authentic but it’s still pretty darn good.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours, 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 to 6
Ingredients
- 2 pounds cheap pork roast
- 1 package cheap white bread buns
- 1 8 ounce can of tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons cayenne
