When the sun shines bright, the smell of BBQ fills the air. It takes me back to happy family times and outdoor meals. The mix of soft pork, tangy sauce, and a warm bun is the taste of summer.
This BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich is a Southern favorite. It’s great for sharing with family and friends on sunny days.
Key Takeaways
- Tender, slow-cooked pork shoulder infused with smoky flavors
- Tangy and sweet homemade barbecue sauce
- Soft, toasted brioche buns for the ultimate sandwich experience
- Refreshing coleslaw topping that adds a delightful crunch
- Perfect for backyard grilling and picnics
Mouth-Watering BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich
The BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich is a favorite at picnics and backyard grills. It has tender, smoky smoked pork shoulder, tangy homemade barbecue sauce, and a soft brioche bun. The coleslaw topping adds a refreshing crunch.
Slow-cooked to perfection, the BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich is a mix of smoky flavors and tender texture. It’s a Southern-style BBQ delight, perfect for summer gatherings.
A Classic Picnic Favorite with Smoky Flavors
The secret to this sandwich is the smoked pork shoulder. It’s slow-roasted at 275°F for 5-6 hours until tender. A rub of brown sugar, spices, and cayenne pepper adds to its flavor.
“The smoky, savory flavors of the pulled pork combined with the tangy, sweet barbecue sauce and the soft, pillowy brioche bun create a truly irresistible sandwich that’s perfect for any outdoor gathering.”
A creamy, vinegar-based coleslaw complements the BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich. It adds a crunchy texture and tangy kick. Served on a toasted brioche bun, it’s a picnic classic that will delight your taste buds.
Tender and Juicy Slow-Cooked Pork Shoulder
The secret to a mouthwatering BBQ pulled pork sandwich is using a slow-cooked pork shoulder or pork butt. This cut of meat turns into tender and juicy perfection after hours of cooking. The long cooking time adds rich, smoky flavors that match well with tangy barbecue sauce.
For the best results, choose a pork shoulder or pork butt that’s 4 1/2 to 5 pounds. Rub the meat with a mix of paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and cumin before slow-cooking it for 8 hours. This method breaks down the meat, making it tender and easy to shred.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Pork shoulder or butt | 4 1/2 to 5 pounds |
| Paprika | 2 tablespoons |
| Oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin | 1/2 teaspoon |
After the slow-cooked pork shoulder is tender, shred it with two forks. Then, mix it with your favorite barbecue sauce. This creates a juicy, flavorful pulled pork. It’s great on toasted brioche buns with a refreshing coleslaw on top.
Tangy and Sweet Homemade Barbecue Sauce
The star of this BBQ pulled pork sandwich is the homemade barbecue sauce. It’s a mix of tangy and sweet, perfect for the smoky pork. It combines ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and spices.
The recipe calls for 1 ½ cups of ketchup, ⅔ cup of apple cider vinegar, and ¼ cup of soy sauce. It also includes ¼ cup of Worcestershire sauce and 1 cup of brown sugar. The flavors are enhanced by 1 tablespoon each of yellow and spicy mustard, 2 teaspoons of ground ginger, and 1 teaspoon of ground garlic.
It also has 1 teaspoon of paprika and 2 teaspoons of chili powder. These add savory and spicy notes.
To mix all the flavors, the barbecue sauce is simmered over medium heat for 15-20 minutes. This makes it thick and perfect for the pork. The result is a tangy and sweet sauce that makes the BBQ pulled pork sandwich complete.
Storing the Sauce
Any leftover barbecue sauce can be stored in a mason jar or airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Or, freeze it for up to 3 months for longer storage.
“The barbecue sauce in this recipe is the perfect balance of flavors, tying the entire BBQ pulled pork sandwich together.”
Toasted Brioche Buns for the Ultimate Sandwich
The soft, pillowy brioche buns are perfect for the tender pulled pork. Toasting the buns adds a delightful crunch. It also helps soak up all the delicious juices.
These brioche buns are made with a simple dough. Instant yeast makes them come together quickly. The result is a soft, fluffy bun that complements the pulled pork perfectly.
To take your sandwich to the next level, toast the buns before assembly. This adds a nice crunch. It also helps prevent the bread from getting soggy, ensuring a satisfying bite every time.
Whether you choose to serve the pulled pork on brioche buns, toasted buns, or any other type of sandwich buns, the combination is sure to please.
“The perfect bun can make or break a sandwich, and these brioche buns are the ultimate pairing for this BBQ pulled pork recipe.”
Crisp, Golden-Brown Buns
To achieve the perfect toasted bun, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the buns on a baking sheet and toast them for about 5-7 minutes. They should be lightly golden-brown and crisp on the outside.
Be sure to keep a close eye on the buns to prevent them from burning. The goal is to get a nice crunch without drying them out completely.
Once the brioche buns are toasted, you’re ready to assemble your delicious BBQ pulled pork sandwiches. The contrast between the soft interior and the crisp exterior is simply divine.
Creamy Coleslaw Topping for a Refreshing Crunch
The creamy coleslaw topping is a great match for BBQ pulled pork. It adds a cool, crisp touch that contrasts with the smoky flavors. This balance makes the dish more enjoyable to eat.
Our creamy coleslaw recipe combines green and red cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing. The dressing has apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and brown sugar. This mix makes the slaw creamy yet refreshing, enhancing your pulled pork sandwich.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Green Cabbage, shredded | 4 cups |
| Red Cabbage, shredded | 2.5 cups |
| Carrots, shredded | 0.5 cup |
| Green Onions, finely sliced | 2 stalks |
| Red Onion, finely diced | 0.25 cup |
| Apple Cider Vinegar | 0.5 cup |
| Dijon Mustard | 1 tablespoon |
| Olive Oil | 0.25 cup |
| Brown Sugar | 2 tablespoons |
| Celery Salt | 0.25 teaspoon |
| Garlic Powder | 0.5 teaspoon |
| Kosher Salt | 1 teaspoon |
To make the creamy coleslaw, mix the cabbage, carrots, and onions in a big bowl. In another bowl, mix the vinegar, mustard, oil, sugar, and spices. Pour this dressing over the veggies and toss to coat.
The coleslaw topping can be made ahead and kept in the fridge for 2 days. It’s easy to add to your BBQ pulled pork sandwich. The creamy, crunchy coleslaw pairs well with the tender pulled pork for a great meal.
BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich
A Southern-Style Delight for Backyard Grilling
The BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich is a classic Southern-style BBQ dish. It’s great for backyard grilling and picnics. It combines tender pork, tangy sauce, soft buns, and crunchy coleslaw for a crowd-pleaser.
To make this dish, start with a pork butt that’s slow-cooked to perfection. It’s rubbed with spices like onion powder, garlic salt, and brown sugar. Then, it’s braised in beer, beef broth, and pork fat until it’s tender.
After cooking, the pork is shredded and mixed with homemade barbecue sauce. This makes a delicious filling for your sandwich. Toasted brioche buns and creamy coleslaw add to the flavor and texture.
The BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich is perfect for any outdoor event. It’s a Southern-style delight that will impress everyone. Serve it with sides like baked beans or potato salad for a complete meal.
“The BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich is a true Southern-style classic that transports you to the heart of backyard grilling season.”
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Results
Making the ultimate BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich is easy with the right steps. Start by rubbing the pork shoulder with a tasty spice blend. Then, slow-cook the meat until it’s so tender it falls apart.
This recipe will help you make juicy, saucy, and delicious pulled pork every time. You’ll get perfect results by following these steps.
Seasoning and Slow-Cooking the Pork
Begin by seasoning your pork shoulder with brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning all over the meat, making sure to cover every part.
After the pork is coated, put it in your slow cooker on low heat. Let it cook for 8-9 hours. When it’s done, it should be tender and shred easily with a fork.
Shredding the Pork
After the pork is cooked, move it to a large cutting board or clean surface. Use two forks to shred the meat into strands. Be gentle to keep the pork tender.
Saucing the Pulled Pork
In a big bowl, mix the shredded pork with homemade barbecue sauce. Toss the pork until it’s well-coated and the flavors mix well. The sauce will make the pork taste amazing in your sandwiches.
Follow these steps to make perfect pulled pork for your BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches. Adjust cooking time and temperature as needed. Always check the pork’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s safe at 145°F. Enjoy your homemade pulled pork!
Serving Suggestions and Pairing Ideas
When serving BBQ pulled pork sandwiches, the options are endless. The smoky, tender pork goes well with many classic sides. These can make your backyard barbecue or picnic even better.
Start with creamy coleslaw for a refreshing crunch. It’s a great match for the rich, savory pulled pork. For something heartier, try creamy mac and cheese or baked beans. They soak up the tangy barbecue sauce nicely.
Roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes, bell peppers, and onions add color and health. Fresh, seasonal fruit, like a fruit salad or grilled peaches, also contrasts well with the bold pulled pork flavors.
Let guests customize their sandwiches with extra barbecue sauce. This way, they can add more flavor as they like.
For drinks, a cold beer is a classic choice. But lemonade, iced tea, or a zesty citrus cocktail can also pair well with the pulled pork.
The secret to a great pulled pork sandwich is to let the pork be the star. Offer a variety of sides and toppings so guests can make their perfect sandwich. Enjoy your barbecue with these tasty ideas!
Make-Ahead Tips for Easy Meal Prep
This BBQ pulled pork sandwich recipe is perfect for any occasion. The pork shoulder can be cooked ahead of time, making it great for meal prep and make-ahead meals. It’s perfect for a backyard barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner.
The pork shoulder, also known as a Boston butt, is key. It’s about 6 pounds and needs slow cooking for the best taste and texture. Once cooked, you can shred it and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Freezing the pulled pork makes meal prep easier. Just put the shredded pork in airtight containers or freezer bags. This way, you have a quick and tasty protein ready to go at any time.
When you’re ready to eat your BBQ pulled pork, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, reheat it on the stovetop or in the oven until it’s hot. You can also use leftover pork in tacos, sandwiches, casseroles, or pasta bakes.
Using this pulled pork recipe for make-ahead and freezing saves you time and stress. It’s a delicious and crowd-pleasing option for any meal. Stock up on this versatile protein for easy meals or spontaneous barbecues.
Conclusion
The BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich is a true Southern classic. It’s perfect for backyard grilling, picnics, and casual gatherings. With its tender, smoky pork, tangy homemade barbecue sauce, soft brioche buns, and refreshing coleslaw topping, this sandwich is a crowd-pleaser. It’s sure to become a new family tradition.
Whether you’re firing up the grill for a summer cookout or craving a comforting, flavorful meal, the BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich is the way to go. The slow-cooked pork shoulder gives the dish rich, smoky notes. The sweet and tangy barbecue sauce adds the perfect balance of flavors.
From the soft, toasted brioche buns to the crunchy coleslaw topping, every element of this sandwich works together seamlessly. It creates a truly satisfying and delicious experience. With its widespread availability and ease of preparation, the BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich is a versatile and accessible option. It’s sure to please any crowd.