17+ East Carolina Pulled Pork Recipe You Won't Believe The Taste!
Published on: Mar 13, 2024
East Carolina pulled pork is a traditional and beloved dish that has been passed down through generations in the Southern United States. This recipe originated in the eastern part of North Carolina, where pork was a staple meat due to the abundance of pigs in the area. The dish has gained popularity across the country and is now a staple at barbecue restaurants and backyard gatherings. The secret to this mouth-watering dish lies in the slow cooking process and the tangy vinegar-based sauce.
Main Ingredients: Brioche, Pulled Pork, Slaw, Tater Tots, Bbq Sauce
Who says you can't have pulled pork for breakfast? This unique recipe combines crispy tater tots with tender pulled pork for a delicious and satisfying sandwich. The tangy BBQ sauce adds the perfect kick to this savory breakfast option.
2of 20
Instant Pot Eastern Carolina BBQ Pulled Pork
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Pork Butt, Apple Cider Vinegar, White
If you're short on time but still craving pulled pork, this Instant Pot recipe is the perfect solution. The pressure cooker quickly and easily cooks the pork to perfection, while the Eastern Carolina BBQ sauce adds a unique and flavorful twist to this classic dish.
3of 20
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork & Creamy Coleslaw
Main Ingredients: Pulled Pork, Onion, Garlic, Beef Broth, Water, Brown
This slow cooker recipe is a game changer for busy weeknights. Simply throw the pork in the slow cooker in the morning and come home to tender and juicy pulled pork. The creamy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch to every bite.
4of 20
The Juiciest Smoked Pulled Pork
Main Ingredients: Pulled Pork, Olive Oil, Seasoning, Salt, Beer
For those who love a good BBQ, this smoked pulled pork recipe is a must-try. The combination of spices and slow smoking process creates a juicy and flavorful pork that falls apart with every bite. Don't forget to top it off with your favorite BBQ sauce.
5of 20
Pulled Pork Sliders
Main Ingredients: Slider Rolls, Butter, Pulled Pork, Barbecue Sauce
Perfect for parties or a quick and easy dinner, these pulled pork sliders are always a crowd pleaser. The tender and flavorful pork is served on soft dinner rolls and topped with a tangy coleslaw for a delicious and satisfying bite.
6of 20
Pulled Pork Sandwich
Main Ingredients: Pulled Pork, Red Cabbage, Spring Onion, Carrot, Lime
There's no denying that a classic pulled pork sandwich is hard to beat. This recipe keeps it simple with a tender and juicy pork smothered in your favorite BBQ sauce. Add some pickles or coleslaw for a little extra crunch and tang.
7of 20
Basic Pulled Pork
Main Ingredients: Top Loin, Cumin, Salt, Pepper, Cooked Pulled Pork, Flat
If you're new to making pulled pork, this basic recipe is a great place to start. With just a few ingredients and a slow cooker, you can create a tender and flavorful pork that can be used in a variety of dishes. Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
8of 20
World's Best Carolina Pulled Pork
Main Ingredients: Pork Shoulder Butt, Water, Apple Cider, Kosher Salt
Looking for a pulled pork recipe that will impress your friends and family? Look no further than this award-winning recipe. The combination of spices and cooking methods creates a pork that is packed with flavor and falls apart with every bite.
9of 20
Easy Slow Cooker Pulled Pork with Tangy BBQ Sauce
Main Ingredients: Pulled Pork, Medium Onion, Garlic, Chicken Broth, Brown
This easy slow cooker recipe is perfect for those busy days when you still want a delicious and satisfying meal. The tangy BBQ sauce adds the perfect amount of flavor to the tender and juicy pork. Serve it on a bun or over rice for a complete meal.
10of 20
Pulled Pork Tacos
Main Ingredients: Taco Shells, Pulled Pork, Spicy Barbecue Sauce
Tacos are a fan favorite for a reason, and this pulled pork version is no exception. The tender and flavorful pork pairs perfectly with your favorite taco toppings for a delicious and unique twist on a classic dish.
11of 20
Carolina Pulled Pork
Main Ingredients: Pork, Lipton Recipe Secrets Onion Soup Mix, Ketchup
For those who prefer a tangy and slightly sweet pulled pork, this Carolina-style recipe is a must-try. The combination of vinegar, mustard, and spices creates a unique and flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with the tender and juicy pork.
12of 20
Pulled Pork Pasta Bake
Main Ingredients: Pulled Pork, Pasta, Cheddar, Salt, Black Pepper
This pulled pork pasta bake is a hearty and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. The tender and flavorful pork is mixed with a creamy tomato sauce and topped with cheese for a delicious and comforting pasta dish.
13of 20
Slow-Cooker Beach House Pulled Pork
Main Ingredients: Pulled Pork, Boston Butt, Yellow Mustard, Salt, Ground
Take your taste buds on a vacation with this slow-cooker beach house pulled pork. The combination of tropical flavors and tender pork create a dish that will transport you to a tropical paradise. Serve it on a bun or over rice for a delicious and satisfying meal.
14of 20
Pulled Pork Enchiladas
Main Ingredients: Pulled Pork, White Corn Tortillas, Red Chile Sauce
These pulled pork enchiladas are a perfect way to use up any leftover pulled pork. The tangy and flavorful pork pairs perfectly with the enchilada sauce and cheese for a delicious and comforting meal. Serve with your favorite toppings for a customizable dinner option.
15of 20
Slow Cooker Carolina Pulled Pork
Main Ingredients: Brown Sugar, Paprika, Salt, Black Pepper, Onions, Pork
This Carolina-style pulled pork is perfect for those busy days when you still want a delicious and satisfying meal. The slow cooker does all the work, creating a tender and flavorful pork that pairs perfectly with the tangy BBQ sauce.
16of 20
Pulled Pork Nachos
Main Ingredients: Tortilla Chips, Pulled Pork, Shredded Sharp Cheddar
Upgrade your nachos game with this pulled pork version. The tender and flavorful pork is layered on top of crispy tortilla chips and topped with all your favorite nacho toppings. Perfect for game day or a fun and easy dinner option.
17of 20
Pulled Pork Tacos with Cilantro Lime Aioli
Main Ingredients: Pulled Pork, Corn Tortillas, Cilantro, Limes, Mayo
These pulled pork tacos are a flavor explosion in every bite. The tender and flavorful pork is topped with a tangy and creamy cilantro lime aioli for a unique and delicious twist on a classic dish. Add your favorite taco toppings for a customizable meal.
18of 20
Healthy Pulled Pork Soup
Main Ingredients: Chicken Stock, Olive Oil, Carrots, Onions, Celery
Looking for a healthier way to enjoy pulled pork? This soup recipe is packed with veggies and lean protein for a nutritious and satisfying meal. The tender and flavorful pork adds a delicious twist to this classic comfort food.
19of 20
Apple Bourbon Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Main Ingredients: Boneless Pork Loin, Pulled Pork, Brown Sugar, Apple
Add a touch of sweetness to your pulled pork with this apple bourbon sandwich recipe. The combination of flavors creates a unique and delicious sandwich that is perfect for fall. Serve with a side of sweet potato fries for a complete meal.
20of 20
Pulled Pork Hash
Main Ingredients: Vegetable Oil, Red Onion, Orange Pepper, Red Pepper
Who says pulled pork is only for sandwiches? This pulled pork hash is a delicious and creative way to use up any leftover pork. The crispy potatoes and tender pork create a perfect balance of textures and flavors for a hearty and satisfying breakfast option.
The Perfect Cut of Meat
Choosing the Right Pork Shoulder
When it comes to making the best East Carolina pulled pork, the first step is selecting the right cut of meat. Pork shoulder, also known as pork butt, is the ideal choice for this recipe. It is a relatively inexpensive cut of meat, making it perfect for feeding a crowd. The high fat content of pork shoulder keeps the meat moist and tender during the long cooking process. When purchasing the meat, look for a bone-in pork shoulder as it adds more flavor to the dish.
The Slow Cooking Process
Low and Slow
The key to achieving tender and juicy pulled pork is to cook it low and slow. This means cooking the meat at a low temperature for a long period of time. Traditionally, the pork shoulder is cooked over indirect heat on a charcoal grill for several hours. However, for those who do not have access to a grill, the dish can also be prepared in a slow cooker or oven.
The Importance of Resting
After the pork has finished cooking, it is important to let it rest for at least 20 minutes before shredding. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more flavorful and tender. Resist the temptation to shred the meat right away, as it will not be as succulent.
The Tangy Vinegar-Based Sauce
A Simple Yet Flavorful Sauce
The East Carolina pulled pork is known for its tangy and flavorful sauce. Unlike other barbecue sauces, which are usually tomato or molasses-based, this sauce is made with apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and spices. The sauce is typically served on the side, allowing each person to add as much or as little as they desire.
Marinate and Baste
To truly infuse the meat with the flavors of the sauce, it is important to marinate the pork in the sauce for at least 8 hours before cooking. This will ensure that the meat is tender and flavorful. During the cooking process, baste the meat with the sauce every hour to add an extra layer of flavor.
Adjusting the Sauce to Your Taste
One of the great things about this recipe is that the sauce can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences. For those who prefer a sweeter sauce, add more brown sugar. If you like a spicier sauce, add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce. The possibilities are endless, making this dish customizable for any palate.
In conclusion, the East Carolina pulled pork recipe is a delicious and versatile dish that is perfect for any occasion. With the right cut of meat, slow cooking process, and tangy vinegar-based sauce, you can create a mouth-watering and flavorful meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds. So fire up the grill or turn on the slow cooker and get ready to enjoy a taste of the South.