Carolina-Style Pulled Pork

Imagine a warm, sunny afternoon, friends and family gathered around a table laden with vibrant, mouthwatering dishes, and at the center of it all, a generous platter of Carolina-Style Pulled Pork. The tantalizing aroma fills the air, teasing your senses and making your stomach rumble in anticipation. It’s a feast fit for a true southern belle, and today, we’re here to help you recreate this delectable experience in your own home.

Carolina-Style Pulled Pork is a classic dish originating from the Carolinas, known for its tender, juicy meat and tangy, vinegar-based sauce. This dish holds a special place in the hearts of many, evoking memories of backyard barbecues, family gatherings, and celebrations of all kinds.

Now, we know what you’re thinking: “Making pulled pork from scratch sounds like a daunting task.” But fear not! We’re here to guide you through the process, step by step, ensuring that you’ll master the art of Carolina-Style Pulled Pork in no time. So, let’s get started!

Choosing the right cut of meat is essential for this dish. We recommend using a pork shoulder, also known as Boston butt or pork butt, due to its perfect balance of fat and lean meat. This cut ensures tender, succulent results that will have your guests coming back for seconds (and thirds!).

Marinating the meat is the first crucial step in achieving that irresistible flavor. A well-seasoned dry rub works wonders here, penetrating the meat and infusing it with a symphony of spices and herbs. Be sure to generously coat your pork shoulder and let it marinate overnight in the fridge for maximum flavor impact.

When it comes to cooking your pork shoulder, low and slow is the name of the game. A slow cooker, oven, or smoker will all yield fantastic results – just make sure you give yourself plenty of time, as this dish can take anywhere from 8 to 12 hours to cook. Patience is key, but the reward is oh-so-worth it.

Once your pork has reached fall-apart tenderness, it’s time for the grand finale: pulling the meat and mixing it with that signature Carolina-Style sauce. The sauce, a tangy blend of vinegar, spices, and just a touch of sweetness, adds a zesty kick that perfectly complements the rich, succulent pork.

Now that you’ve created your masterpiece, it’s time to serve up your Carolina-Style Pulled Pork with pride. Pile it high on a soft bun, top it with a scoop of crunchy coleslaw, and dig in! This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, such as grilled corn on the cob, baked beans, and a refreshing cucumber salad. And of course, no southern feast would be complete without a sweet treat to end the meal – think pecan pie or peach cobbler.

So there you have it– the secret to creating a mouthwatering, unforgettable Carolina-Style Pulled Pork feast that will leave your friends and family in awe. With a little patience and a lot of love, you too can master this classic southern dish and elevate your gatherings to a whole new level.

As you embark on this culinary adventure, don’t forget to have fun and let your creativity shine. After all, the best recipes are those that are made with joy and shared with the ones we love. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to impress with your newfound Carolina-Style Pulled Pork prowess!

Carolina-Style Pulled Pork

Course: Main CourseCuisine: American

Servings

8

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

8

hours 

Calories

500

kcal

Succulent and tangy Carolina-Style Pulled Pork that will transport your taste buds to the heart of the South.

Ingredients

• 4 lbs pork shoulder

• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

• 1/4 cup water

• 1 cup ketchup

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tsp cayenne pepper

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

• Trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder and season generously with salt and pepper.
• In a slow cooker, combine apple cider vinegar, water, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well to create the sauce.
• Place the seasoned pork shoulder into the slow cooker and spoon some sauce over it. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender and easily shreds.
• Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred using two forks. Discard any large pieces of fat.
• Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix well with the sauce. Cook for an additional 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
• Serve the Carolina-Style Pulled Pork on buns or over rice, and enjoy!

Notes

• For a spicier kick, add more cayenne pepper or include hot sauce in the sauce mixture.
• Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• This recipe can also be made in an Instant Pot or pressure cooker, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

This Carolina-Style Pulled Pork pairs exceptionally well with a variety of dishes. Some classic Southern sides to serve alongside your pulled pork include coleslaw, baked beans, collard greens, and cornbread. For a complete Carolina-style barbecue experience, don’t forget to add some hush puppies and a tall glass of sweet tea!

For a lighter option, consider pairing your pulled pork with a fresh, crisp salad or grilled vegetables. The tangy, savory flavors of the Carolina-Style Pulled Pork will complement and elevate any dish you choose to serve it with.

Finally, no Carolina-style feast would be complete without dessert. Finish off your meal with a slice of pecan pie or a serving of banana pudding for an indulgent, satisfying treat that perfectly complements the flavors of your pulled pork.