North Carolina Pulled Pork: A Southern Classic
If you’re looking to dive into authentic Southern barbecue, then North Carolina pulled pork is a must-try. This recipe, passed down from a North Carolina native, brings a genuine taste of the South to your kitchen. Made conveniently in the slow cooker, it’s not only delicious but practically foolproof, even for beginners.
Understanding North Carolina Pulled Pork
Before diving into the recipe, let’s address a common question: What is North Carolina-style pulled pork? In essence, it is a flavorful pork dish slow-cooked to tender perfection, often infused with a vinegar-based sauce. This style varies from other regional versions primarily in its sauce and cooking technique, marking its distinct place in the Southern culinary landscape.
Yield and Preparation Details
This dish yields six satisfying servings and requires minimal prep time. Here are the preparation details:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 9 hours
- Total time: 9 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 6
North Carolina Pulled Pork Ingredient List
- 2 pounds pork shoulder roast
- salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup ketchup
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ⅓ cup red wine vinegar
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how to prepare your North Carolina pulled pork easily:
- Firstly, season the pork shoulder roast generously with salt and pepper to taste.
- Next, place the seasoned pork shoulder in a slow cooker.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, and red wine vinegar. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Pour the mixture over the pork in the slow cooker, making sure it is evenly coated.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 9 hours, or until the pork is tender and falls apart easily.
- Once cooked, shred the pork using two forks, mixing it with the sauce in the slow cooker for full flavor integration.
Healthier Cooking Tips
While this recipe is flavorful as is, you can consider some healthier adjustments. For instance, you could use less brown sugar or substitute it with a natural sweetener like honey. Additionally, leaning on leaner cuts of pork or briefly broiling to shade off excess fat before slow-cooking can also be mild alterations.
Why This North Carolina Pulled Pork is a Must-Try
Ease of Preparation: Just set it and forget it in the slow cooker—minimal hassle, maximum taste.
Authentic Flavor: The perfect blend of tangy and sweet, showcasing the classic North Carolina style.
Versatile: Ideal for sandwiches, salads, or as a standalone dish.
Conclusion
In conclusion, North Carolina pulled pork is a Southern dish that should not be missed. Its authenticity, ease of preparation, and unparalleled flavor make it a standout option for any meal. Try this recipe today, and savor the delicious world of Southern barbecue. Your taste buds will thank you!
