The sweet and tangy flavors of a BBQ pulled pork sandwich are a staple of American cuisine, and for good reason. The tender, juicy pork, the crunchy coleslaw, and the soft, fluffy bun all come together to create a culinary masterpiece that’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. But what makes a truly great BBQ pulled pork sandwich? And how can you make one at home that rivals those served at your favorite barbecue joint? In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the world of BBQ pulled pork sandwiches and provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to make the perfect one.
Choosing the Right Cut of Meat
When it comes to making a BBQ pulled pork sandwich, the type of meat you use is crucial. You want a cut that’s going to be tender, juicy, and full of flavor. The most popular cut of meat for pulled pork is the pork shoulder, also known as the Boston butt. This cut is perfect for slow-cooking, as it’s got a good amount of fat and connective tissue that will break down and become tender with time.
Why Pork Shoulder is the Best Choice
There are several reasons why pork shoulder is the best choice for pulled pork:
- It’s got a good balance of fat and lean meat, which makes it tender and juicy.
- It’s relatively inexpensive compared to other cuts of meat.
- It’s easy to find in most supermarkets.
Other Cuts of Meat You Can Use
While pork shoulder is the most popular cut of meat for pulled pork, there are other cuts you can use as well. Some other options include:
- Pork butt: This cut is similar to the pork shoulder, but it’s got a bit more fat and is even more tender.
- Pork picnic: This cut is taken from the lower portion of the pig’s shoulder and is known for its rich, unctuous flavor.
Preparing the Meat
Once you’ve chosen your cut of meat, it’s time to prepare it for cooking. Here are the steps you’ll need to follow:
- Rinse the meat under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
- Season the meat with your favorite spices, such as salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Let the meat sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to allow the seasonings to penetrate the meat.
Creating a Dry Rub
A dry rub is a mixture of spices and herbs that you rub all over the meat to give it flavor. Here’s a simple recipe for a dry rub that you can use for your pulled pork:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| ———- | ——– |
| Brown sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Smoked paprika | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Onion powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | 1 tablespoon |
| Black pepper | 1 tablespoon |
| Cayenne pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
Mix all of the ingredients together in a small bowl until they’re well combined. Then, rub the dry rub all over the meat, making sure to coat it evenly.
Cooking the Meat
There are several ways you can cook your pulled pork, including grilling, roasting, and slow-cooking. Here, we’ll focus on slow-cooking, as it’s the most popular method for making pulled pork.
Using a Slow Cooker
A slow cooker is a great way to cook your pulled pork, as it allows you to cook the meat low and slow over a long period of time. Here’s how to use a slow cooker to make your pulled pork:
- Place the meat in the slow cooker and add your favorite barbecue sauce.
- Cook the meat on low for 8-10 hours, or until it’s tender and falls apart easily.
- Shred the meat with two forks and serve it on a bun.
Using a Smoker
If you’ve got a smoker, you can use it to add a rich, smoky flavor to your pulled pork. Here’s how to use a smoker to make your pulled pork:
- Set up your smoker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Place the meat in the smoker and close the lid.
- Smoke the meat for 4-6 hours, or until it’s tender and falls apart easily.
- Shred the meat with two forks and serve it on a bun.
Assembling the Sandwich
Once you’ve cooked your pulled pork, it’s time to assemble the sandwich. Here are the steps you’ll need to follow:
- Split a bun in half and toast it lightly.
- Add a generous helping of pulled pork to the bun.
- Top the pork with coleslaw, pickles, and any other toppings you like.
- Drizzle the sandwich with barbecue sauce and serve it immediately.
Choosing the Right Toppings
The toppings you choose for your pulled pork sandwich can make or break the dish. Here are some popular toppings you might consider:
- Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw can add a nice crunch and cooling flavor to your sandwich.
- Pickles: Thinly sliced dill pickles can add a nice tanginess to your sandwich.
- Barbecue sauce: A sweet and tangy barbecue sauce can add a rich, depth of flavor to your sandwich.
- Onions: Thinly sliced onions can add a nice crunch and flavor to your sandwich.
Getting Creative with Your Toppings
While the toppings listed above are all classics, there are many other toppings you can use to get creative with your pulled pork sandwich. Some ideas might include:
- Grilled pineapple: A sweet and tangy grilled pineapple can add a nice tropical flavor to your sandwich.
- Jalapeños: Thinly sliced jalapeños can add a nice spicy kick to your sandwich.
- Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro can add a nice freshness and flavor to your sandwich.
By following these steps and using a little creativity, you can make a BBQ pulled pork sandwich that’s sure to impress even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you’re a barbecue aficionado or just looking for a new twist on a classic dish, this guide has got you covered. So go ahead, get creative, and make a BBQ pulled pork sandwich that’s truly unforgettable.
What is the best type of pork to use for BBQ pulled pork sandwiches?
The best type of pork to use for BBQ pulled pork sandwiches is a boneless pork shoulder or butt. This cut of meat is ideal because it is tender, juicy, and has a good balance of fat and lean meat. The fat content helps to keep the meat moist and flavorful during the long cooking process. You can also use a bone-in pork shoulder, but you will need to remove the bone before shredding the meat.
When selecting a pork shoulder, look for one that is at least 2 pounds in weight. This will ensure that you have enough meat for a good-sized sandwich. You can also use a larger pork shoulder if you need to feed a crowd. Just keep in mind that a larger pork shoulder will take longer to cook.
How do I prepare the pork shoulder for cooking?
To prepare the pork shoulder for cooking, start by seasoning it with a dry rub. You can use a store-bought dry rub or make your own using a combination of spices, herbs, and brown sugar. Apply the dry rub evenly to all surfaces of the pork shoulder, making sure to coat it thoroughly. Let the pork shoulder sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking to allow the seasonings to penetrate the meat.
Next, heat your grill or smoker to the desired temperature. If you are using a grill, you can cook the pork shoulder over direct heat for a few minutes on each side to get a nice sear. If you are using a smoker, you can cook the pork shoulder over low heat for several hours to get a tender and flavorful result.
What is the best way to cook a pork shoulder for BBQ pulled pork sandwiches?
The best way to cook a pork shoulder for BBQ pulled pork sandwiches is low and slow. This means cooking the pork shoulder over low heat for a long period of time. You can use a smoker, grill, or oven to cook the pork shoulder. If you are using a smoker, cook the pork shoulder over low heat (around 225-250°F) for 8-10 hours. If you are using a grill, cook the pork shoulder over low heat (around 275-300°F) for 4-6 hours. If you are using an oven, cook the pork shoulder at 300°F for 6-8 hours.
Cooking the pork shoulder low and slow will help to break down the connective tissues in the meat, making it tender and easy to shred. It will also help to infuse the meat with a rich and smoky flavor. You can use wood chips or chunks to add extra flavor to the pork shoulder as it cooks.
How do I shred the pork shoulder?
To shred the pork shoulder, start by letting it rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking. This will help the juices to redistribute and the meat to relax, making it easier to shred. Use two forks to pull the meat apart into shreds. You can also use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment or a meat claw to shred the pork shoulder.
As you shred the pork shoulder, be sure to remove any excess fat or connective tissue. You can also add some barbecue sauce to the shredded meat to help keep it moist and add extra flavor. Use a gentle touch when shredding the pork shoulder to avoid tearing the meat.
What is the best type of barbecue sauce to use for BBQ pulled pork sandwiches?
The best type of barbecue sauce to use for BBQ pulled pork sandwiches is a sweet and tangy sauce. You can use a store-bought barbecue sauce or make your own using a combination of ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and spices. Look for a sauce that is thick and syrupy, as this will help to coat the shredded meat evenly.
When selecting a barbecue sauce, consider the flavor profile you want to achieve. If you want a sweet and smoky flavor, look for a sauce that contains ingredients like honey, brown sugar, and smoked paprika. If you want a tangy and spicy flavor, look for a sauce that contains ingredients like vinegar, hot sauce, and red pepper flakes.
How do I assemble a BBQ pulled pork sandwich?
To assemble a BBQ pulled pork sandwich, start by spooning some shredded pork onto a bun. You can use a soft bun, such as a hamburger bun or a brioche bun, or a crispy bun, such as a baguette or a ciabatta. Add some barbecue sauce to the shredded meat to help keep it moist and add extra flavor.
Next, add some toppings to the sandwich, such as coleslaw, pickles, and onions. You can also add some diced tomatoes or jalapeños for extra flavor. Finally, top the sandwich with the top bun and serve immediately. You can also serve the sandwich with some sides, such as baked beans, potato salad, or chips.
Can I make BBQ pulled pork sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes, you can make BBQ pulled pork sandwiches ahead of time. In fact, the pork shoulder can be cooked and shredded a day or two in advance. Simply store the shredded meat in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat it when you are ready to assemble the sandwiches.
You can also assemble the sandwiches ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for a few hours. However, it’s best to add the toppings just before serving to ensure that the sandwich stays fresh and crispy. If you are serving a crowd, you can also set up a sandwich bar with all the fixings and let everyone assemble their own sandwiches.