A *pulled pork sandwich* is a comforting dish you'll love! It consists of slow-cooked pork shoulder seasoned with spices, then shredded and mixed with BBQ sauce. You place it on a toasted bun and top it with coleslaw for added crunch. Isn't that a tasty combo? This dish has roots in Southern barbecue and became popular in the 1950s. It's perfect for gatherings since a 3-pound shoulder serves about 8 sandwiches. You might enjoy it with sides like potato salad or baked beans. Trust me, there's so much more to explore about making this delightful sandwich! ��✨

History

The pulled pork sandwich, rooted in Southern barbecue traditions, particularly hails from states like North Carolina and Tennessee, where slow-cooked pork is a staple.

Have you ever wondered how this delicious dish came to be? It all started in the early 20th century when folks began using cheaper cuts of meat, like pork shoulder. Through slow cooking, these cuts became tender and packed with flavor.

Today, many enthusiasts utilize advanced cooking technologies, such as Traeger pellet grills, which offer precise temperature control and versatile cooking methods for achieving that perfect pulled pork texture and flavor versatile cooking options.

During the barbecue boom of the 1950s and 1960s, pulled pork really took off. Regional barbecue joints began serving it on buns, topped with barbecue sauce and coleslaw. This combination of shredded pork, tangy sauce, and crunchy coleslaw creates a mouthwatering experience that many people love.

As pulled pork sandwiches gained popularity, they became a staple at food festivals and competitions across the country. They helped solidify their place in American barbecue culture.

Isn't it amazing how a simple dish can connect so many people? The pulled pork sandwich reflects not just Southern cuisine, but also a rich history of creativity and community.

Recipe

Pulled Pork Sandwich Recipe

Pulled pork sandwiches are a delightful and hearty dish, perfect for gatherings, picnics, or a comforting family meal. The process begins with seasoning a pork shoulder, a cut known for its rich flavor and tenderness when slow-cooked. By using a blend of spices like chili powder, garlic powder, and brown sugar, you enhance the natural taste of the meat.

Cooking it low and slow for 8-10 hours allows the pork to become incredibly tender, making it easy to shred with a fork. For the best cooking results, consider using a reliable thermometer, such as the ThermoWorks Instant Thermometers, which guarantee precise temperature readings to avoid overcooking.

Once the pork is cooked, it can be mixed with your favorite BBQ sauce to add an extra layer of flavor. This mixture is then served on toasted hamburger buns, which provide a warm and crunchy base for the succulent pulled pork. Topping off the sandwich with coleslaw not only adds a revitalizing crunch but also balances the richness of the meat, making for an irresistible combination.

Ingredients:

• 4-5 lbs pork shoulder
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 tablespoons garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
• Hamburger buns
• Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

Start by seasoning the pork shoulder generously with chili powder, garlic powder, brown sugar, salt, and pepper.

Place the seasoned pork in a slow cooker and set it to low for 8-10 hours, allowing it to cook until tender. Once the pork is fully cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.

Mix the shredded pork with your chosen BBQ sauce until evenly coated. Toast the hamburger buns until warm and crispy, then pile on the pulled pork and top with coleslaw before serving.

Extra Tips:

For the best flavor, consider marinating the pork shoulder with the spices the night before cooking. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat more deeply.

Additionally, feel free to experiment with different BBQ sauces to find the perfect flavor profile that suits your taste. If desired, you can also add pickles or jalapeños for an extra kick!

Final Thoughts

Pulled pork sandwiches offer a satisfying blend of flavors and textures that can elevate any meal. You can create an amazing dish by layering tender, shredded slow-cooked pork with BBQ sauce and crunchy coleslaw on toasted buns. Doesn't that sound delicious?

Plus, a 3-pound pork shoulder can serve about 8 sandwiches, making this recipe perfect for gatherings! To guarantee your pork is cooked to perfection, consider using a reliable meat thermometer for precise cooking every time, as performance and accuracy are key to achieving the best results.

To make your pulled pork even better, don't skip toasting the buns. It adds a nice crunch that perfectly complements the softness of the shredded pork.

And what's a pulled pork sandwich without some tasty side dishes? Think about serving potato salad, garlic fries, or baked beans for a well-rounded meal.

While enjoying your sandwich, keep in mind that it typically has around 457 calories per serving. That's a lot of flavor packed into one bite!