North Carolina Chopped Barbecued Pork

North Carolina Chopped Barbecued Pork Recipe - Authentic American Cuisine

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 4 hours | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

North Carolina Chopped Barbecued Pork is a classic Southern dish that is known for its tangy and flavorful sauce. This recipe features a pork shoulder roast that is slow-cooked until tender and then chopped into bite-sized pieces. The sauce is a combination of vinegar, catsup, and spices that give the pork a unique and delicious flavor.

History

North Carolina Chopped Barbecued Pork has its roots in the traditional barbecue culture of the American South. The vinegar-based sauce used in this recipe is a signature of North Carolina barbecue, which is known for its tangy and slightly spicy flavor. This dish has been enjoyed for generations in North Carolina and has become a staple at barbecue joints and family gatherings throughout the state.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) pork shoulder roast
0.5 tsp salt
0.5 tsp celery seed
0.13 tsp ground cinnamon
0.13 cup cider vinegar
0.25 cup catsup
0.25 tsp chili powder
0.25 tsp ground nutmeg
0.25 tsp sugar
0.5 cup water
cider vinegar to taste
tabasco sauce to taste

How to prepare

Brown the roast in a small amount of fat and place it in a Dutch oven.
Mix the ingredients in North Carolina, and, as far as we know, it is native to that state.

Variations

For a spicier version, add more tabasco sauce to the sauce mixture.
Substitute the pork shoulder roast with chicken or beef for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best flavor, allow the pork shoulder roast to marinate in the sauce overnight before cooking.

- Be sure to brown the roast before placing it in the Dutch oven to add depth of flavor to the dish.

- Adjust the amount of cider vinegar and tabasco sauce to suit your personal taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the North Carolina Chopped Barbecued Pork with coleslaw, baked beans, and cornbread for a classic Southern meal.

Cooking Techniques

Slow-cook the pork shoulder roast in a Dutch oven for tender and flavorful meat.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use apple cider vinegar instead of regular cider vinegar for a slightly sweeter flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the North Carolina Chopped Barbecued Pork on a platter with a garnish of fresh parsley or green onions.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a glass of sweet tea or a cold beer for a refreshing beverage option.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

250 per serving

Carbohydrates

3g per serving

Fats

12g per serving

Proteins

25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of iron and vitamin B12.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens.

Summary

This dish is a good source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals. It is relatively low in carbohydrates and calories.

Summary

North Carolina Chopped Barbecued Pork is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a Southern-inspired meal. With its tangy vinegar-based sauce and tender pork, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly remember the moment I discovered this recipe for North Carolina Chopped Barbecued Pork. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting a friend in North Carolina. We decided to have a barbecue in her backyard, and she insisted on making her famous chopped pork dish. I had never tried it before, but as soon as I took my first bite, I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

My friend graciously shared her family recipe with me, explaining that it had been passed down for generations. The secret, she said, was in the way the pork was seasoned and slow-cooked until it was tender and flavorful. I watched closely as she prepared the marinade, a blend of vinegar, sugar, and spices that would infuse the meat with a tangy, sweet flavor.

As the pork cooked low and slow on the grill, the smell wafting through the air was intoxicating. I couldn't wait to taste the final product. When it was finally time to eat, I took a bite of the tender, smoky meat and knew that this recipe was something special.

When I returned home, I couldn't wait to try making the North Carolina Chopped Barbecued Pork on my own. I gathered all the ingredients I needed and set to work recreating the dish. As I seasoned the pork and let it marinate, the memories of that summer day in North Carolina flooded back to me.

When the pork was finally ready, I took a bite and was transported back to that backyard barbecue. The flavors were just as I remembered – tangy, sweet, and perfectly balanced. I knew then that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made this North Carolina Chopped Barbecued Pork for countless family gatherings and events. Each time, it is met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I am always happy to share the secret behind this delicious dish, knowing that it will continue to be enjoyed by generations to come.

As I reflect on how I learned to make this recipe, I am grateful for the friendships and experiences that have brought me to this point. Food has a way of connecting us to our past and our loved ones, and this recipe will always hold a special place in my heart.

So, the next time you find yourself craving a taste of North Carolina, give this recipe a try. I promise you won't be disappointed. Happy cooking!