Smokey Delights: BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches and Smoked Porter

Indulge in the ultimate barbecue experience with Smokey Delights, a pairing that brings together the rich, deep flavors of BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches with the complex smokiness of a Smoked Porter. This combination is a celebration of smoke and savor, where the succulent, slow-cooked pork is enhanced by a beer that carries the essence of smoked malt. The Smoked Porter, with its notes of coffee, chocolate, and campfire, complements the sweet and tangy barbecue sauce, creating a multidimensional taste experience. Perfect for a backyard barbecue, game day, or any occasion that calls for bold flavors, this pairing is a testament to the power of smoke in both food and beer.

Ingredients:

For the BBQ Pulled Pork:

4-5 pounds pork shoulder (pork butt)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

2 tablespoons smoked paprika

1 tablespoon brown sugar

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

2 cups apple cider vinegar

1 cup barbecue sauce (plus extra for serving)

Buns, for serving

Coleslaw, for serving (optional)

 

Instructions:

Prepare and Cook the Pork:

Season the Pork:

Mix together salt, pepper, smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Rub this mixture all over the pork shoulder.

Slow Cook:

 

Place the seasoned pork in a slow cooker. Pour apple cider vinegar around the pork. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is tender and shreds easily.

Shred and Sauce:

Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred the meat using two forks. Discard any excess fat. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix with 1 cup of barbecue sauce. Keep warm.

Prepare the Sandwiches:

Assemble:

Lightly toast the buns if desired. Heap a generous amount of the BBQ pulled pork onto the bottom half of each bun. Top with additional barbecue sauce and coleslaw if using.

For the Smoked Porter Pairing:

Select a Smoked Porter that offers a balance between smoky malt flavors and the traditional characteristics of a porter. Look for a beer with a moderate body and complementary notes of chocolate, coffee, and a hint of smokiness that won't overpower the palate.

 

Serving:

Serve the BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches with a chilled glass of Smoked Porter. The smokiness of the beer echoes the barbecue flavors, while its rich malt profile adds another layer of depth to the meal. This pairing is a feast for the senses, offering a combination of textures and flavors that celebrate the art of smoking and slow cooking.

 

Smokey Delights: BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches and Smoked Porter is a pairing designed for those who appreciate the nuances of smoked foods and beers. It's a comforting, satisfying choice that's perfect for indulging in the rich, complex flavors that only slow cooking and careful brewing can achieve. Enjoy this smoky, savory pairing that's sure to be a hit at any gathering.