Pulled Pork Recipe

Looking for some true American dish or just longing for some roast? Let’s make pulled pork even when the BBQ season is toast!

The story of pulled pork dates back several centuries and has its origins in the southern United States, particularly in the region known as the Carolinas. It is a mouthwatering dish that has become a staple of Southern cuisine and has gained popularity worldwide.

Legend has it that the origins of pulled pork can be traced back to the barbecues held by Native American tribes. They would slow-cook whole hogs over open fires, allowing the meat to become tender and easily pulled apart. This cooking technique was later adopted by African slaves who brought their culinary traditions to the region, further influencing the development of this beloved dish.

One famous person who was known to have an affinity for pulled pork was none other than the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln. Lincoln was not only an influential political figure but also a lover of good food. He often found solace and relaxation in indulging in hearty meals, and his appreciation for pulled pork was no exception.

As the story goes, during the Civil War, President Lincoln frequently visited the Union soldiers’ camps to boost morale and express his support. On one such occasion, he arrived at a camp in Virginia and was greeted by the aroma of slow-cooked, smoky pulled pork. The soldiers had prepared a feast, hoping to impress their esteemed guest.

Curiosity got the better of Lincoln, and he couldn’t resist sampling the succulent pulled pork that had been prepared for him. As he took a bite, his eyes widened, and a smile spread across his face. The tender meat, combined with the rich, smoky flavor and tangy barbecue sauce, captivated his taste buds.

Lincoln’s fondness for pulled pork became well-known among the soldiers, and it became a tradition to prepare this dish whenever he made a visit. The soldiers would gather around the campfire, patiently cooking the pork for hours until it was tender enough to be easily pulled apart. It became a symbol of comfort and camaraderie, reminding the troops of their shared love for good food and their leader.

The story of Abraham Lincoln’s appreciation for pulled pork spread throughout the country, further contributing to the dish’s popularity. Today, pulled pork is often associated with Southern-style barbecue and is enjoyed in various forms, including sandwiches, tacos, and even as a standalone main dish.

So the story of pulled pork intertwines the rich culinary traditions of Native Americans and African slaves with the admiration of a famous historical figure like Abraham Lincoln. It stands as a testament to the power of food to bring people together, transcend cultural boundaries, and create cherished memories that last for generations.

Ingredients

Brine

Brine is optional but brine makes meat taste better so highly recommended. If short on time use stronger brine while longer time allows the meat to develop more refined flavors. Dry brine can also be used with similar success. Check out How to Make Brine – Brine Recipes.

Soft Brine 5%

1½ tablespoon / 25g Salt
Herbs of choice (Bay leaf, black pepper, mustard seed…)
4 cloves / 16g Garlic
2 cups / 500g Water

Pork

4lb / 2000g Pork shoulder
2 tablespoons / 30g Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon / 3.5g Paprika
Optional
- 1 tablespoon Black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Hot powder (chill, cayenne, paprika…)

How to make Pulled pork

Place the meat into a big enough bowl then add the salt, herbs of choice and garlic.
Fill it up with water then let it sit for a day in the fridge.
Take the brined meat out onto a high walled baking tray. Spread some cooking oil or lard underneath.
Coat it with mustard, paprika and any other optional spices. Cover it with a lid or tin foil. Place it into the oven and roast it for 5 to 6 hours at 300°F / 150°C.
Checking on the meat during this time is not essential but we can check it every now and then. When the meat doesn’t offer much resistance and the knife or fork just slides in easily, it’s done.
Take the cover off, put the sheet onto a higher rack and roast the outer layer to the desired color. Some like it golden brown others go for darker shades. Use the highest temperature in the oven and only the top heating if available. In 15 minutes it should show some results.
Take the pork out, then use forks to pull them apart.

Enjoy!

F.A.Q.

What is pulled pork?

Pulled pork is a dish made from slow-cooked pork shoulder or pork butt that is tender enough to be easily “pulled” or shredded into strands. It is typically seasoned with a blend of spices, slow-cooked for several hours, and then mixed with barbecue sauce or other flavorings.

How to cook pulled pork?

Pulled pork is traditionally cooked low and slow. It can be prepared in various ways, such as smoking, barbecuing, or using a slow cooker or oven. The pork is seasoned, then cooked at a low temperature for several hours until it becomes tender enough to be pulled apart with a fork.

What cut of pork is best for pulled pork?

The most common cuts used for pulled pork are pork shoulder (also known as pork butt) and pork butt (which is actually part of the shoulder). These cuts have a good amount of fat and connective tissue, which helps keep the meat moist and flavorful during the long cooking process.

How long does it take to cook pulled pork?

The cooking time for pulled pork can vary depending on the cooking method and the size of the cut. Generally, it takes anywhere from 8 to 12 hours to cook pulled pork, although larger cuts may take even longer. Low and slow cooking is essential to achieve the desired tenderness and flavor.

What are some popular seasonings and sauces for pulled pork?

Traditional seasonings for pulled pork include a mix of spices such as paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. As for sauces, barbecue sauce is a popular choice, with variations ranging from sweet and tangy to smoky and spicy. However, there are also other flavor options such as vinegar-based sauces or dry rubs.

Can pulled pork be made in advance?

Yes, pulled pork can be made in advance and stored for later use. Once cooked and shredded, it can be refrigerated for a few days or frozen for several weeks. When ready to serve, it can be reheated gently on the stovetop or in the oven.

What are some serving suggestions for pulled pork?

Pulled pork is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. One popular option is to serve it on a soft bun as a pulled pork sandwich, often topped with coleslaw. It can also be used as a filling for tacos, quesadillas, or sliders. Additionally, it can be served alongside barbecue sides like baked beans, cornbread, or macaroni and cheese.