Pulled pork sliders are a staple of American comfort food, and for good reason. The tender, juicy pork, the soft, fluffy bun, and the tangy, sweet flavors all come together to create a culinary experience that’s hard to beat. But what really takes pulled pork sliders to the next level is the accompaniments. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best pairings for pulled pork sliders, from classic sides to creative twists.
Classic Pairings
When it comes to pulled pork sliders, there are a few classic pairings that are hard to beat. These are the tried-and-true combinations that have been perfected over years of backyard barbecues and family gatherings.
Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a timeless pairing for pulled pork sliders. The creamy, tangy slaw provides a nice contrast to the rich, meaty flavor of the pork. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make. Simply shred some cabbage, carrots, and onions, and mix with mayonnaise, vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Baked Beans
Baked beans are another classic pairing for pulled pork sliders. The sweet, smoky flavor of the beans complements the pork perfectly, and the texture provides a nice contrast. You can make your own baked beans from scratch, or use a store-bought variety.
Grilled Corn on the Cob
Grilled corn on the cob is a summer staple that pairs perfectly with pulled pork sliders. The smoky, slightly charred flavor of the corn complements the pork nicely, and the texture provides a nice contrast. Simply brush the corn with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and grill until slightly charred.
Creative Twists
While classic pairings are always a good idea, sometimes it’s fun to mix things up and try something new. Here are a few creative twists on traditional pulled pork slider pairings.
Pickles
Pickles are a surprisingly great pairing for pulled pork sliders. The tangy, sour flavor of the pickles provides a nice contrast to the rich, meaty flavor of the pork. You can use traditional dill pickles, or try something more adventurous like sweet pickles or pickle chips.
Onion Rings
Onion rings are a crispy, indulgent pairing for pulled pork sliders. The crunchy texture and sweet, oniony flavor provide a nice contrast to the soft, meaty pork. You can make your own onion rings from scratch, or use a store-bought variety.
Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese is a comforting, indulgent pairing for pulled pork sliders. The creamy, cheesy pasta provides a nice contrast to the rich, meaty flavor of the pork. You can make your own mac and cheese from scratch, or use a store-bought variety.
Regional Specialties
Pulled pork sliders are a staple of American comfort food, but different regions have their own unique twists and specialties. Here are a few regional specialties that pair perfectly with pulled pork sliders.
Carolina-Style BBQ Sauce
In the Carolinas, pulled pork is a staple of barbecue culture. And the key to great Carolina-style pulled pork is the sauce. A tangy, vinegar-based sauce is the traditional choice, but you can also try a sweeter, tomato-based sauce.
Texas-Style Coleslaw
In Texas, coleslaw is a staple of barbecue culture. But Texas-style coleslaw is a little different from the traditional variety. It’s made with a spicy kick of jalapeno peppers, and a tangy, vinegar-based dressing.
Memphis-Style Dry Rub
In Memphis, dry rub is the key to great pulled pork. A blend of spices like paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder is rubbed all over the pork before it’s slow-cooked to perfection.
International Inspirations
Pulled pork sliders are a staple of American comfort food, but they can also be inspired by international flavors and ingredients. Here are a few international inspirations that pair perfectly with pulled pork sliders.
Korean BBQ Sauce
Korean BBQ sauce is a sweet, spicy, and savory condiment that pairs perfectly with pulled pork sliders. Made with ingredients like gochujang, soy sauce, and brown sugar, it adds a depth of flavor and heat to the pork.
Jamaican Jerk Seasoning
Jamaican jerk seasoning is a spicy, aromatic blend of spices that pairs perfectly with pulled pork sliders. Made with ingredients like allspice, thyme, and scotch bonnet peppers, it adds a Caribbean twist to the traditional pulled pork flavor.
Indian-Style Raita
Indian-style raita is a cool, creamy condiment that pairs perfectly with pulled pork sliders. Made with ingredients like yogurt, cucumber, and cumin, it provides a nice contrast to the rich, meaty flavor of the pork.
Conclusion
Pulled pork sliders are a staple of American comfort food, and for good reason. The tender, juicy pork, the soft, fluffy bun, and the tangy, sweet flavors all come together to create a culinary experience that’s hard to beat. Whether you stick with classic pairings or try something new and adventurous, there’s no denying the appeal of a perfectly crafted pulled pork slider. So next time you’re in the mood for comfort food, give pulled pork sliders a try – and don’t forget to pair them with some of these delicious accompaniments!
What is the best type of pork to use for pulled pork sliders?
The best type of pork to use for pulled pork sliders is a boneless pork shoulder or butt. This cut of meat is ideal because it is tender, juicy, and has a good balance of fat and lean meat. The fat content helps to keep the meat moist and flavorful, even after it has been cooked and shredded.
When selecting a pork shoulder, look for one that is around 2-3 pounds in size. This will provide enough meat for 8-10 sliders, depending on how generously you fill them. You can also use a larger or smaller pork shoulder, depending on your needs.
How do I cook the pork for pulled pork sliders?
To cook the pork for pulled pork sliders, you can use a slow cooker or a Dutch oven. If using a slow cooker, season the pork with your desired spices and place it in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. If using a Dutch oven, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Season the pork and place it in the Dutch oven. Cover the pot and cook for 6-8 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Strain the cooking liquid and discard any excess fat. Add the strained liquid back to the shredded meat and toss to coat.
What are some popular toppings for pulled pork sliders?
Some popular toppings for pulled pork sliders include coleslaw, pickles, barbecue sauce, and diced onions. You can also offer additional toppings, such as diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or cilantro, to give your sliders a bit of extra flavor and texture.
When it comes to coleslaw, you can use a store-bought variety or make your own. A simple coleslaw made with shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, and vinegar is a classic choice. For pickles, you can use thinly sliced dill or sweet pickles. Barbecue sauce is also a must-have for many pulled pork fans.
How do I assemble the pulled pork sliders?
To assemble the pulled pork sliders, start by toasting the buns on the grill or in a toaster. This will help to give the buns a bit of crunch and texture. Next, spoon a generous amount of pulled pork onto each bun. Add your desired toppings, such as coleslaw, pickles, and barbecue sauce.
Finally, top each slider with the top bun. You can also add a few extra toppings, such as diced onions or cilantro, on top of the slider. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Can I make pulled pork sliders ahead of time?
Yes, you can make pulled pork sliders ahead of time. In fact, the pork is often more tender and flavorful after it has been refrigerated or frozen and then reheated. To make ahead, cook the pork and shred it as directed. Then, refrigerate or freeze the pork until you are ready to assemble the sliders.
When you are ready to serve, simply reheat the pork in the microwave or on the stovetop. Assemble the sliders as directed and serve. You can also assemble the sliders ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to a day before serving.
How do I store leftover pulled pork sliders?
To store leftover pulled pork sliders, start by wrapping each slider individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped sliders in a single layer in a container or zip-top bag. Refrigerate the sliders for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
When you are ready to serve, simply reheat the sliders in the microwave or on the stovetop. You can also reheat the sliders in the oven, wrapped in foil, at 350°F (180°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Can I customize pulled pork sliders to suit my tastes?
Yes, you can customize pulled pork sliders to suit your tastes. One way to do this is to add different spices or seasonings to the pork as it cooks. You can also offer a variety of toppings, such as diced tomatoes or jalapeños, to give your sliders a bit of extra flavor and texture.
Another way to customize pulled pork sliders is to use different types of buns or bread. For example, you can use pretzel buns or ciabatta rolls to give your sliders a bit of extra texture and flavor. You can also use different types of barbecue sauce or add a bit of honey or brown sugar to the pork for extra sweetness.