Slow Cooker Pulled Pork is a recipe to master. Whether you're hosting a summer BBQ for or getting cozy inside with the family in the fall - Pulled Pork is a staple for all seasons. But while pulled pork is a go-to recipe, many people serve it the same way.
Take your pulled pork to the next level by giving your guests a way to customize their sandwich or dish with BBQ Sauces from the many regions of the south.
About Western North Carolina BBQ Sauce
Barbecue is a loved culinary tradition in the American South, and one of the defining characteristics of regional barbecue styles is the sauce. Each region boasts its own unique flavors, ingredients, and preparation methods, making American barbecue an endlessly diverse and delicious experience. One such distinctive barbecue sauce is the Western North Carolina variety, which stands out as a testament to the South's culinary heritage.
Western North Carolina, often referred to as "Lexington-style" or "Piedmont-style" barbecue, is known for its tangy, vinegar-based sauce with a touch of tomato. It's a style that has become popular beyond the state's borders. Here are the key characteristics of one of our very favorites of them all :
Vinegar Base
The hallmark of this sauce is its vinegar base. It typically consists of apple cider vinegar, which provides a sharp, tangy flavor. The vinegar is mixed with a blend of spices to create a slightly acidic sauce.
A Bit of Tomato Infusion
Unlike the Eastern North Carolina sauce, Western North Carolina BBQ sauce incorporates some tomato, often from ketchup, which add a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor. This balance of tartness from the vinegar and sweetness from the tomatoes is a defining feature.
Spices and Heat
To give the BBQ Sauce complexity, the sauce includes a few spices namely black pepper, red pepper flakes, and hint of brown sugar - but not enough to make it sweet. These ingredients not only provide flavor but also a mild to moderate level of heat.
Western North Carolina BBQ sauce is not just a condiment; it's a symbol of local culture and culinary pride. It has also spread its influence beyond the region's borders, contributing to the diversity of barbecue styles found throughout the American South.
Whether you're a fan of tangy vinegar-based sauces or smoky and sweet concoctions, there's a barbecue style in the American South to satisfy every palate. This one is for the vinegar lovers!
THE ULTIMATE SLOW COOKER SLOW PORK
Serves 6
INGREDIENTS
For the Slow Cooker Pork:
7 lbs of duBreton pork shoulder
1 teaspoon kosher salt flakes (less if using table salt)
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1 large yellow onion, peeled and sliced
1 cup chicken broth
For the Spice Rub (optional)
A spice rub isn't essential to making a fabulous pulled pork. Pork is meant to shine in your dish, and with onion and salt - the pork is well seasoned, especially when using a high quality organic pork like that from our partner duBreton. That said, if you want to have fun with spices and seasonings, here is one spice rub to start with. At The Chef & The Dish we believe in Method Cooking. Use the spices below and begin playing with flavors. Remember, your BBQ Sauce is another hero of the dish, so while you're playing with flavors, don't forget to allow the different components in your dish to shine.
2 Tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion poweder
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon cayenne
Mix all spices, salt and pepper together. Rub pork with straight salt and pepper, or the spice mixture and let rest for about an hour. Meanwhile, slice the onion and place on the bottom of a large slow cooker. Lay the pork shoulder ontop of the onion, and pour chicken broth around the pork.
Cover the pork shoulder and cook on low for 8 hours
Western North Carolina BBQ Sauce Recipe
Serves 8
INGREDIENTS
1 cup cider vinegar
¼ cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons kosher salt flakes (less if using table salt)
2 teaspoons red pepper flakes
¼ cup ketchup
While your pork shoulder is in the slow cooker, begin making your Western Carolina BBQ Sauce.
Whisk everything together in a small saucepan and set over medium heat. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3 minutes. This tangy BBQ Sauce is perfect when poured over a Pulled Pork Sandwich and topped with Creamy Coleslaw.
Enjoy!
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