Pulled pork is a beloved dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of many. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, a casual dinner party, or just a quick weeknight meal, pulled pork is always a crowd-pleaser. However, the key to elevating this dish to new heights lies in the accompaniments you serve alongside it. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of pulled pork pairings, exploring the best sides, salads, and desserts to serve with this mouth-watering meat.
Classic Sides: Timeless Favorites to Serve with Pulled Pork
When it comes to pairing sides with pulled pork, there are a few classic options that never go out of style. These tried-and-true favorites are sure to complement the rich, smoky flavor of the pork.
Coleslaw: A Refreshing Contrast
Coleslaw is a timeless pairing for pulled pork, and for good reason. The cool, creamy texture and tangy flavor of the slaw provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, tender pork. You can make your own coleslaw using shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, and a variety of spices, or opt for a store-bought version.
Baked Beans: Sweet and Smoky
Baked beans are another classic pairing for pulled pork. Sweet and smoky, these beans are infused with the same BBQ flavors that make pulled pork so irresistible. You can make your own baked beans from scratch using navy beans, tomato sauce, and spices, or use a store-bought variety.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: A Summer Staple
Grilled corn on the cob is a summer staple that pairs perfectly with pulled pork. The smoky flavor of the grilled corn complements the pork nicely, while the sweetness of the corn adds a nice contrast. Simply brush the corn with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and grill until slightly charred.
Hushpuppies: Crispy Fried Balls of Cornbread
Hushpuppies are crispy fried balls of cornbread that are a popular pairing for pulled pork in the Southern United States. These crunchy little morsels are easy to make and add a satisfying texture to your meal. Simply mix together cornmeal, flour, eggs, and spices, shape into balls, and fry until crispy.
Salads: A Lighter Option to Balance Out the Meal
While classic sides like coleslaw and baked beans are always a hit, sometimes you want a lighter option to balance out the meal. Salads are a great way to add some freshness and variety to your pulled pork dinner.
Green Salad with BBQ Ranch Dressing
A simple green salad with BBQ ranch dressing is a great way to cut the richness of the pulled pork. The tangy, slightly sweet flavor of the dressing complements the pork nicely, while the crunchy lettuce and veggies add a refreshing contrast.
Roasted Vegetable Salad: A Colorful and Nutritious Option
A roasted vegetable salad is a colorful and nutritious option that pairs perfectly with pulled pork. Simply toss your favorite vegetables (such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, and sweet potatoes) with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven until tender. Then, top with a tangy vinaigrette and serve alongside the pork.
Quinoa Salad with Grilled Vegetables: A Hearty and Healthy Option
A quinoa salad with grilled vegetables is a hearty and healthy option that’s perfect for a pulled pork dinner. Simply cook quinoa according to package instructions, then top with grilled vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, and onions) and a tangy vinaigrette.
Desserts: Sweet Treats to Round Out the Meal
No pulled pork dinner is complete without a sweet treat to round out the meal. Here are a few dessert ideas that pair perfectly with pulled pork.
Classic Peach Cobbler: A Southern Staple
Classic peach cobbler is a Southern staple that pairs perfectly with pulled pork. The sweet, flaky crust and tender peaches are a match made in heaven. Simply mix together sliced peaches, sugar, and spices, then top with a crumbly biscuit mixture and bake until golden brown.
Banana Pudding: A Creamy and Indulgent Treat
Banana pudding is a creamy and indulgent treat that’s perfect for a pulled pork dinner. The sweet, velvety texture and ripe banana flavor are a great way to round out the meal. Simply mix together vanilla pudding, sliced bananas, and whipped cream, then chill until set.
Watermelon: A Refreshing and Light Option
Watermelon is a refreshing and light option that’s perfect for a pulled pork dinner. The sweet, juicy flavor and refreshing texture are a great way to cut the richness of the meal. Simply slice up a watermelon and serve alongside the pork.
International Inspirations: Unique Pairings to Spice Up Your Pulled Pork Dinner
While classic pairings like coleslaw and baked beans are always a hit, sometimes you want to spice things up with some international inspiration. Here are a few unique pairings to try.
Korean-Style BBQ Tacos: A Spicy and Adventurous Option
Korean-style BBQ tacos are a spicy and adventurous option that pairs perfectly with pulled pork. Simply marinate the pork in a Korean-inspired BBQ sauce (made with gochujang, soy sauce, and brown sugar), then serve in tacos with kimchi slaw and cilantro.
Jamaican Jerk Fries: A Spicy and Crispy Side
Jamaican jerk fries are a spicy and crispy side that pairs perfectly with pulled pork. Simply toss French fries with a Jamaican jerk seasoning (made with allspice, thyme, and scotch bonnet peppers), then bake until crispy.
Indian-Style Raita: A Cool and Creamy Side
Indian-style raita is a cool and creamy side that pairs perfectly with pulled pork. Simply mix together yogurt, cucumber, cumin, and coriander, then chill until set. The cool, creamy texture and tangy flavor are a great way to cut the richness of the meal.
Conclusion
Pulled pork is a versatile dish that can be paired with a wide range of sides, salads, and desserts. Whether you’re in the mood for classic pairings like coleslaw and baked beans, or something more adventurous like Korean-style BBQ tacos, there’s something on this list for everyone. So next time you’re hosting a pulled pork dinner, be sure to try out some of these delicious pairings and elevate your meal to new heights.
| Side Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Coleslaw | A refreshing side made with shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, and spices. |
| Baked Beans | Sweet and smoky beans infused with BBQ flavors. |
| Grilled Corn on the Cob | Smoky and slightly charred corn on the cob. |
| Hushpuppies | Crispy fried balls of cornbread. |
- Green Salad with BBQ Ranch Dressing: A simple green salad with a tangy and slightly sweet dressing.
- Roasted Vegetable Salad: A colorful and nutritious salad made with roasted vegetables and a tangy vinaigrette.
- Quinoa Salad with Grilled Vegetables: A hearty and healthy salad made with quinoa, grilled vegetables, and a tangy vinaigrette.
What are some classic side dishes that pair well with pulled pork?
When it comes to classic side dishes that pair well with pulled pork, there are several options to consider. Coleslaw is a popular choice, as the creamy texture and tangy flavor provide a nice contrast to the rich, smoky flavor of the pork. Baked beans are another classic pairing, as the sweet and smoky flavors complement the pork nicely. Other options include grilled or roasted vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers, which add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Other classic side dishes that pair well with pulled pork include cornbread, hush puppies, and potato salad. Cornbread adds a nice crunch and a touch of sweetness, while hush puppies provide a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior. Potato salad, on the other hand, adds a creamy texture and a tangy flavor that complements the pork nicely. These side dishes can be served alongside the pulled pork, or used as a base for a pulled pork sandwich or wrap.
What types of salads are best paired with pulled pork?
When it comes to pairing salads with pulled pork, there are several options to consider. A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette is a great choice, as the freshness of the greens and the acidity of the vinaigrette cut through the richness of the pork. A more substantial grain salad, such as a quinoa or farro salad with roasted vegetables and a tangy dressing, is also a great option.
Other salads that pair well with pulled pork include a classic wedge salad with iceberg lettuce, crumbled blue cheese, and a creamy ranch dressing, or a more adventurous salad with mixed greens, roasted sweet potatoes, and a spicy pecan praline. These salads can be served as a side dish or used as a base for a pulled pork sandwich or wrap. The key is to find a balance between the richness of the pork and the freshness and acidity of the salad.
What are some popular beverage pairings for pulled pork?
When it comes to pairing beverages with pulled pork, there are several options to consider. Soft drinks, such as cola or root beer, are classic pairings that complement the sweet and smoky flavors of the pork. Iced tea, sweet or unsweet, is also a popular choice, as the refreshing flavor and caffeine content help to cut through the richness of the pork.
For those who prefer adult beverages, beer and bourbon are popular pairings for pulled pork. A crisp, refreshing lager or pilsner can help to cut through the richness of the pork, while a rich, full-bodied bourbon can complement the smoky flavors. Other options include wine, such as a dry Riesling or a fruity Merlot, or a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or lime. The key is to find a balance between the flavors of the pork and the beverage.
What are some creative ways to serve pulled pork?
When it comes to serving pulled pork, there are several creative ways to consider. One option is to serve the pork on a bun, topped with coleslaw, pickles, and barbecue sauce. Another option is to serve the pork in a taco shell, topped with salsa, avocado, and sour cream. The pork can also be served on a bed of greens, topped with cherry tomatoes and a light vinaigrette.
Other creative ways to serve pulled pork include serving it in a grilled cheese sandwich, topped with caramelized onions and barbecue sauce, or serving it in a baked potato, topped with sour cream, chives, and shredded cheese. The pork can also be served as a topping for a salad or as a filling for a wrap or quesadilla. The key is to find a creative way to showcase the flavors and textures of the pork.
What are some popular regional pulled pork styles?
When it comes to pulled pork, there are several regional styles to consider. One popular style is the Southern-style pulled pork, which is slow-cooked in a tangy barbecue sauce and served on a bun. Another popular style is the Kansas City-style pulled pork, which is slow-smoked over hickory wood and served with a thick tomato-based sauce.
Other popular regional styles include the Texas-style pulled pork, which is slow-smoked over post oak wood and served with a thin beef broth-based sauce, and the Carolinas-style pulled pork, which is slow-cooked in a vinegar-based sauce and served on a bun. Each regional style has its own unique flavors and textures, and can be served with a variety of sides and beverages.
What are some tips for making delicious pulled pork at home?
When it comes to making delicious pulled pork at home, there are several tips to consider. One tip is to use a slow cooker or Instant Pot, as these appliances can help to tenderize the pork and infuse it with flavor. Another tip is to use a dry rub or marinade, as these can help to add flavor to the pork and tenderize it.
Other tips include using a meat thermometer to ensure the pork is cooked to a safe internal temperature, and letting the pork rest for 10-15 minutes before shredding it. It’s also important to use a high-quality barbecue sauce or seasoning blend, as these can help to add flavor to the pork. Finally, it’s a good idea to experiment with different types of wood or seasonings to find the flavor combination that works best for you.
Can pulled pork be made in advance and reheated?
Yes, pulled pork can be made in advance and reheated. In fact, making pulled pork ahead of time can be a great way to save time and effort during a busy week. To make pulled pork ahead of time, simply cook the pork as desired, then let it cool and refrigerate or freeze it.
To reheat the pulled pork, simply place it in a saucepan or slow cooker with a little bit of barbecue sauce or broth, and heat it over low heat until warmed through. The pork can also be reheated in the microwave or oven, although this may result in a slightly drier texture. It’s a good idea to add a little bit of moisture, such as barbecue sauce or broth, to the pork before reheating it to help keep it tender and flavorful.