BBQ’d Pork & Prune Sandwiches: A Delightful Harmony of Sweet and Savory
In the culinary realm, where flavors dance on the palate, few combinations are as unexpectedly delightful as the marriage of tender pork and sweet prunes. Our BBQ’d Pork & Prune Sandwiches are a celebration of this unique pairing, promising a flavor experience that is both comforting and intriguingly different. Perfect for a quick lunch or a satisfying snack, these sandwiches blend the savory richness of pork with the sweet tang of prunes and red currant jelly, all nestled between lightly grilled bread. This recipe will guide you through creating this gourmet delight in just under 20 minutes. Let’s dive into the details and make your taste buds rejoice!
Recipe Overview
Name: BBQ’d Pork & Prune Sandwiches
Category: Lunch/Snacks
Cuisine: Canadian
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 4 minutes
Total Time: 19 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories per Serving: 240.4 kcal
Fat Content: 4.1 g
Protein Content: 6.1 g
Carbohydrate Content: 46.3 g
Keywords: Pork, Cheese, Fruit, Meat, Kid-Friendly, Quick, Sweet and Savory
Ingredients
For the Filling:
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8 prunes, softened and mashed
Prunes add a distinct sweet flavor, perfectly complementing the savory pork. -
1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
Cheddar’s sharpness balances the sweetness of the prunes and the richness of the pork. -
1/4 cup red currant jelly
This jelly introduces a tangy element, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the sandwich. -
2 cups roast pork, thinly sliced
The star protein of the dish, providing substance and a satisfying savory taste. -
4 buns or thick slices of bread
The vessel for our delightful filling, choose your favorite type of bread to suit your preference.
For Assembling:
- Butter for spreading
Used to grill the outside of the sandwiches to a golden perfection.
Instructions
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Prepare the Bread:
- Butter one side of each bun or bread slice. Lay them flat on your counter with the buttered side facing down.
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Create the Prune Mixture:
- In a bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese with the mashed prunes. Ensure the mixture is well blended, achieving a consistent texture that will spread easily.
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Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Spread the prune and cheese mixture evenly over one side of each bun or slice of bread. On the opposite side, spread a generous layer of red currant jelly.
- Place the thinly sliced roast pork between the prepared bread slices, creating a sandwich.
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Butter the Outside:
- Lightly butter the outside of the sandwiches. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy, golden crust when grilling.
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Grill the Sandwiches:
- Heat a barbecue grill to medium-high heat. Place the sandwiches on the grill and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they are browned and the cheese has melted. The buttered sides should develop a lovely, crispy exterior.
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Serve:
- Remove the sandwiches from the grill. Let them cool slightly before slicing in half, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the symphony of flavors!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 240.4 kcal
- Fat: 4.1 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.9 g
- Cholesterol: 7.4 mg
- Sodium: 387.9 mg
- Carbohydrates: 46.3 g
- Fiber: 2.8 g
- Sugars: 15.7 g
- Protein: 6.1 g
Tips and Variations
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Bread Selection: Experiment with different types of bread. Whole grain buns can add a nutty flavor, while ciabatta or sourdough can provide a more rustic texture.
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Cheese Options: While cheddar works wonderfully, you can try other cheeses like gouda or brie for a different twist. Each cheese will add its own unique flair to the sandwich.
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Enhancing the Filling: For an added crunch, consider including some finely chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans in the prune mixture.
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Vegetable Additions: Add some greens like arugula or spinach between the pork slices for a fresh, peppery bite.
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Alternative Cooking Methods: If a barbecue grill isn’t available, these sandwiches can be cooked in a panini press or a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
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Prune Alternatives: If prunes aren’t your favorite, dried figs or dates can serve as a substitute, bringing their own sweet and slightly different flavor profile.
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Spicy Twist: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce in the prune mixture can add a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions
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Pairing with a Salad: A light green salad with a citrus vinaigrette can complement the rich flavors of the sandwich, providing a refreshing contrast.
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Crisp Veggie Sides: Serve with a side of crisp vegetable sticks like carrots, cucumbers, or bell peppers for added crunch and a healthy touch.
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Beverage Pairing: A crisp apple cider or a light beer can pair beautifully with the sweet and savory notes of the sandwich. For a non-alcoholic option, try a sparkling water with a splash of lemon.
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Soup Companion: A bowl of creamy tomato soup or a hearty vegetable stew can make for a comforting and well-rounded meal alongside the sandwich.
A Brief History of BBQ’d Pork & Prune Combinations
The combination of pork and prunes is not new to the culinary world; it has historical roots in various cuisines. This pairing is often found in European dishes, where prunes are used to add moisture and sweetness to rich, savory meats. In French cuisine, prunes are commonly combined with pork in dishes like “Porc aux Pruneaux,” a classic recipe where pork is slow-cooked with prunes and onions. This melding of sweet and savory highlights the versatility of prunes as they balance the richness of pork, creating a harmonious and sophisticated flavor profile.
In North American cuisine, particularly Canadian, the use of prunes in savory dishes reflects a broader tradition of incorporating fruits into meat recipes. This sandwich draws inspiration from these traditions, modernizing the concept into a quick, easy-to-make format that captures the essence of these historic culinary practices.
Conclusion
Our BBQ’d Pork & Prune Sandwiches offer a delightful twist on traditional sandwich fare. The blend of sweet prunes, tangy red currant jelly, and savory pork creates a flavor explosion in every bite. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a summer barbecue or simply wanting to elevate your lunchtime routine, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Embrace the fusion of flavors and enjoy the gourmet experience delivered in a simple, yet extraordinary, sandwich.
FAQs
Q: Can I prepare the filling in advance?
Yes, the prune and cheese mixture can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature before assembling the sandwiches.
Q: What type of pork should I use?
Thinly sliced roast pork works best for this recipe. You can use leftover pork roast or purchase pre-sliced deli-style roast pork for convenience.
Q: Are there vegetarian alternatives for this sandwich?
Certainly! You can substitute the roast pork with grilled portobello mushrooms or thick slices of roasted vegetables for a vegetarian version.
Q: How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?
Make sure to evenly spread the prune mixture and the red currant jelly to avoid excess moisture. Grilling the sandwiches quickly over medium-high heat also helps in creating a crispy exterior while keeping the inside well-contained.
Q: Can I use a different type of fruit jelly?
Absolutely. Feel free to experiment with other fruit jellies such as raspberry or apricot, which can also provide a delightful balance to the savory elements of the sandwich.
Enjoy the delightful journey of flavors with each bite of these BBQ’d Pork & Prune Sandwiches, and let this recipe add a touch of gourmet elegance to your everyday meals. Happy cooking!
