Delicious Pork Barbecue Recipe for Grilling

Introduction

Indulging in the smoky, tangy, and savory flavors of pork barbecue has long been a favorite among meat lovers worldwide. This recipe, shared exclusively through Love With Recipes, offers a comprehensive guide to preparing tender, flavorful pork barbecue right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re seeking a quick weeknight dinner or a casual dish to impress guests at your next gathering, this recipe provides the perfect balance of ease and taste. The combination of aromatic spices, a rich homemade barbecue sauce, and the versatile method of roasting or slow-cooking makes this dish a true crowd-pleaser. With attention to detail and a focus on flavor layering, this recipe ensures every bite is bursting with deliciousness that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Time

Total Time: 50 minutes

The overall process involves a quick preparation phase, cooking, and a finishing step that results in a hearty, flavorful pork barbecue. The breakdown of each phase is as follows:

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Duration: 50 minutes

This timing makes it ideal for busy weeknights, ensuring that you can enjoy a homemade, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The actual roasting or slow-cooking of the pork can be adjusted based on your schedule, with options for longer, low-and-slow cooking for even more tender results.

Needed Equipment

For a seamless cooking experience, gather the following equipment before beginning:

• Oven or Slow Cooker: For roasting or slow cooking the pork tenderloin.
• Baking Sheet or Roasting Pan: To hold the pork during roasting.
• Meat Thermometer: To monitor internal temperature for safety and perfect tenderness.
• Mixing Bowls: Several, for preparing spice blends and sauce components.
• Whisk or Wooden Spoon: For stirring sauces and spice mixtures.
• Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: To prepare and shred the pork.
• Forks or Meat Claws: For shredding the cooked pork.
• Large Skillet or Frying Pan: For browning the shredded pork.
• Saucepan: To simmer the barbecue sauce.
• Measuring Spoons and Cups: For precise ingredient measurement.
• Cooking Utensils: Spatula, tongs, and ladle for handling hot ingredients.
• Aluminum Foil or Parchment Paper: For wrapping or lining for easy cleanup.

Tags

Meat, Barbecue, Pork Recipes, Quick Dinner, Homestyle Cooking, Savory, Easy, Family-Friendly, Grilling

Serving Size

This recipe yields approximately enough for 4-6 servings, depending on portion sizes. It is ideal for serving as a main dish with accompanying sides or as a hearty filling for sandwiches and wraps.

Difficulty Level

This recipe is rated as Easy, suitable for cooks of all skill levels, including beginners. The straightforward steps, minimal equipment, and simple ingredient list make it accessible yet impressive in flavor.

Allergen Information

This recipe does not contain common allergens like soy, wheat, or nuts but includes garlic and onion, which may be problematic for certain dietary restrictions. Adjust seasoning accordingly if needed.

Dietary Preference

Suitable for omnivores and adaptable for low-sodium diets by reducing salt and sugar components. Not vegan or vegetarian due to the pork content. For gluten-free variations, ensure ketchup and vinegar are certified gluten-free.

Course

Main Course / Main Dish

Cuisine

American, Barbecue

Ingredients

Instructions

Preparing the Pork

Start by preheating your oven to 275°F (135°C). If you prefer a traditional roasting method, place the pork tenderloin on a baking sheet or roasting pan lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Season the pork with salt and pepper for enhanced flavor. Roast the pork in the oven for approximately 2-3 hours until the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F (63°C) for safety and optimal tenderness. Use a meat thermometer to monitor the temperature, inserting it into the thickest part of the tenderloin.

Alternatively, for a more hands-off approach, set the pork in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours, which allows the meat to become incredibly tender and easy to shred. This method is particularly suited for busy days or when planning to serve the dish later in the day.

Seasoning the Pork

While the pork is roasting or slow-cooking, prepare the spice mixture. In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, ground cumin, and chili powder. Mix thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of spices. Once the pork is cooked and cool enough to handle, shred it using two forks or meat claws, pulling the meat into fine strands. Spread the shredded pork onto a large piece of wax paper or a clean surface, then sprinkle the prepared spice mixture evenly over the shredded pork. Gently pat the spices into the meat to ensure they adhere well, resulting in a flavorful and well-seasoned base for the barbecue.

Cooking the Pork

In a large nonstick skillet, heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, add the seasoned shredded pork. Spread the pork out in an even layer and cook for 3-5 minutes without stirring to allow the bottom to brown and become crispy. Then, stir or flip the pork to brown other sides, cooking until the desired crispy texture is achieved. This step adds both texture and flavor, creating a delightful contrast with the tender interior.

Preparing the Barbecue Sauce

While the pork is browning, prepare the barbecue sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine the remaining 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1/4 teaspoon of pepper, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, vinegar, water, ketchup, chopped onions, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking or burning. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently. Stir occasionally, allowing the sauce to reduce by approximately 25% and thicken to a glossy, sauce-like consistency, which should take around 15 minutes.

Adjust the heat to maintain a gentle simmer, and taste the sauce periodically. If you prefer a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. For a sweeter profile, increase the brown sugar slightly. The goal is a balanced, tangy, and slightly sweet barbecue sauce that complements the pork perfectly.

Combining the Pork and Sauce

Once the sauce has thickened, add the cooked, crispy shredded pork into the saucepan. Use a spatula or tongs to toss and coat the pork thoroughly with the sauce, ensuring every strand is flavorful and moist. Allow the mixture to simmer together for an additional 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld together beautifully.

Serving the Pork Barbecue

Serve the hot, sauced pork barbecue on toasted hamburger buns, sandwich rolls, or even over cooked rice or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. Garnish with fresh herbs like chopped cilantro or sliced green onions for added freshness. For a complete meal, consider pairing with classic sides such as coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread.

Preparation Tips

• Choosing the Right Pork: Pork tenderloin is lean and cooks quickly, but for even more flavor, consider using pork shoulder or butt, which benefits from slow cooking and yields even more tender, pull-apart meat.
• Spice Customization: Adjust the spice levels according to your preference—add more chili powder or red pepper flakes for heat, or reduce for milder flavor.
• Cooking Method Flexibility: While roasting is recommended for quick preparation, slow cooking allows the flavors to develop more deeply. Both methods produce excellent results.
• Making Ahead: The pork can be cooked and shredded a day in advance. Reheat gently and toss with the sauce before serving.
• Spice Mix Storage: Prepare the spice blend in bulk and store in an airtight container for future use, saving prep time for subsequent batches.

Nutritional Information

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. For precise tracking, use a nutrition calculator tailored to your ingredients.

Tips and Tricks

• Slow Cooker Advantage: Use a slow cooker to infuse the pork with flavor while freeing up your oven space. The low-and-slow method ensures tender, pull-apart meat perfect for barbecue sandwiches.
• Extra Crispy Texture: For extra crunch, broil the cooked shredded pork for 2-3 minutes before combining with sauce.
• Homemade Spice Mix: Customize your spice blend by adding smoked paprika or other seasonings like onion powder or cayenne pepper for unique twists.
• Adjust Sweetness and Tang: Balance the sauce with additional sugar or vinegar based on your taste preference.

Add-ons

• Cheese: Melted cheddar or Monterey Jack adds richness.
• Pickles: For a tangy crunch that complements the smoky flavors.
• Coleslaw: A classic side that adds freshness and texture.
• Hot Sauce: For heat lovers, a dash of hot sauce elevates the flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Classic coleslaw
• Baked beans
• Cornbread or cornbread muffins
• Grilled vegetables
• Potato salad
• Sweet potato fries

Improvements

• Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for a smoky depth.
• Add a splash of bourbon or whiskey to the sauce for an extra layer of richness.
• Incorporate diced pineapple into the sauce for a sweet and tangy twist.
• Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime for brightness.

Save and Store

Leftover pork barbecue can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the meat moist.

FAQ

Can I use pork shoulder instead of tenderloin?

Absolutely. Pork shoulder is fattier and benefits from slow cooking, resulting in more tender, pull-apart meat. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is this recipe suitable for making ahead?

Yes. The cooked pork can be shredded and stored a day in advance. Reheat and toss with sauce before serving for maximum flavor.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes. Use gluten-free ketchup and vinegar. Ensure all ingredients are verified gluten-free to avoid contamination.

How spicy is this recipe?

The red pepper flakes add a mild to moderate heat. Adjust or omit for milder flavor, or add extra for more heat.

Can I cook this on a grill instead of oven or slow cooker?

Yes. Grill the pork over medium heat until cooked through, then shred and proceed with the sauce as directed.

Conclusion

This homemade pork barbecue recipe combines simplicity with bold flavors, making it an excellent addition to your cooking repertoire. The process of roasting or slow-cooking, combined with a rich, tangy sauce, guarantees a tender and flavorful dish that will satisfy every palate. Perfect for casual family dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe exemplifies comfort food at its finest. Remember to adjust seasonings to fit your taste, experiment with add-ons, and enjoy the process of creating a true homemade barbecue experience. For more recipes and culinary inspiration, visit Love With Recipes—your go-to platform for delicious, tested, and reliable dishes that bring love and joy to your table.

References

• Smith, J. (2020). The Art of Barbecue. Culinary Press.
• Johnson, L. (2019). Perfect Pork Techniques. Foodie Publishing.