Smoky Pork Feast

The Smoky Pork Feast is a tantalizing combination of tender BBQ pulled pork, crisp steamed green beans, creamy coleslaw, and refreshing apple slices. This hearty meal brings together smoky, savory, and sweet flavors in perfect harmony, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or casual gatherings.

The Recipe:

Tender BBQ Pulled Pork

Ingredients:

• 4-5 lbs pork shoulder
• 2 cups BBQ sauce
• 1 lb green beans
• 1 head cabbage, shredded
• 2 carrots, grated
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 apples, sliced

Instructions:

1. Rub the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and your favorite BBQ spice blend.
2. Smoke the pork at 225°F (107°C) for 8-10 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 195°F (90°C).
3. Rest the meat for 30 minutes, then shred using two forks.
4. Mix with BBQ sauce and serve.

Detailed Preparation:

Pork Preparation:

• Choose a well-marbled pork shoulder for the best flavor and tenderness.
• Trim excess fat if desired, but leave some for moisture and flavor.
• Apply a generous dry rub the night before cooking for enhanced taste.

Smoking Process:

• Use hickory or applewood chips for a classic BBQ flavor.
• Maintain a consistent temperature throughout the smoking process.
• Spritz the meat with apple juice every hour to keep it moist.
• The pork is done when it easily shreds and reaches the target internal temperature.

Sauce Application:

• Mix the shredded pork with warm BBQ sauce for even distribution.
• Add sauce gradually to avoid overwhelming the meat’s flavor.

Variations:

• Use different wood chips like mesquite or cherry for unique flavor profiles.
• Experiment with dry rub ingredients like coffee grounds or brown sugar.
• Try different regional BBQ sauces for variety.

Tips:

• Allow the meat to come to room temperature before smoking.
• Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
• Let the pork rest before shredding to retain juices.
• For a time-saving option, use a slow cooker or pressure cooker instead of smoking.

The Side Dishes:

Steamed Green Beans:

• Trim the ends of the beans.
• Steam for 5-7 minutes until crisp-tender.
• Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Coleslaw:

• Mix shredded cabbage and grated carrots.
• Whisk mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper for the dressing.
• Combine the vegetables and dressing, refrigerate for at least an hour before serving.

Apple Slices:

• Core and slice apples just before serving to prevent browning.
• Toss with a little lemon juice to maintain freshness.

Equipment & Ingredients:

To make your very own smoky pork dish at home, you may consider purchasing these items on Amazon:

Equipment:

• Smoker
• Digital Meat Thermometer
• Dry Rub
• Wood Chips
• Meat Shredding Claws
• Steamer Basket
• Mandoline Slicer
• Mixing Bowls
• Storage Containers

Ingredient(s):

• BBQ Sauce: Sweet Baby Ray’s Original Barbecue Sauce

The combination of tender, flavorful pork with fresh, crisp sides makes for a balanced and satisfying meal. Whether you’re a BBQ enthusiast or a novice cook, this recipe offers room for creativity and personalization to suit your taste preferences.