Carolina Pulled Pork is a Southern barbecue classic, known for its tender, juicy meat and tangy vinegar-based sauce. This dish is perfect for a cookout or family gathering, offering a mouthwatering combination of smoky flavors and a zesty kick that sets it apart from other styles of pulled pork. Traditionally slow-cooked to perfection, Carolina Pulled Pork is typically served on a bun with coleslaw, making it a satisfying and flavorful meal that captures the essence of Southern comfort food.
Ingredients:
- For the Pork:
- 4-5 pounds pork shoulder (Boston butt)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- For the Vinegar Sauce:
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- For Serving:
- Hamburger buns
- Coleslaw (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pork:
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), and mustard powder.
- Rub the pork shoulder with olive oil, then coat it evenly with the spice mixture.
- Wrap the pork in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Cook the Pork:
- Preheat your smoker or grill to 225°F (110°C). If using a grill, set it up for indirect heat.
- Place the pork shoulder on the smoker or grill, fat side up.
- Smoke the pork for 8-10 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 195°F (90°C) and the meat is tender enough to pull apart easily.
- Alternatively, you can cook the pork in a slow cooker on low for 8-10 hours.
- Prepare the Vinegar Sauce:
- While the pork is cooking, combine the apple cider vinegar, white vinegar, brown sugar, hot sauce, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl. Mix well and set aside.
- Pull the Pork:
- Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the smoker or slow cooker and let it rest for about 20 minutes.
- Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces, discarding any large pieces of fat.
- Transfer the pulled pork to a large bowl and pour the vinegar sauce over it. Toss to coat the meat evenly.
- Serve:
- Serve the Carolina Pulled Pork on hamburger buns, topped with coleslaw if desired.
Enjoy your delicious Carolina Pulled Pork, a true Southern barbecue favorite that’s perfect for any gathering or casual meal!
