Are you craving a hearty, flavorful meal that transports you to the heart of Appalachia? Then look no further! This Upstate Coal Miners' Barbecue recipe is a delicious and surprisingly easy dish perfect for a weekend cookout or a comforting weeknight dinner. This recipe is a nod to the robust flavors and simple ingredients that fueled generations of hardworking miners in the Upstate region. It's a celebration of homemade cooking at its finest, delivering a truly unforgettable taste of Southern heritage. Get ready to experience a smoky, savory explosion that will leave you wanting more!
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs pork shoulder (butt roast), bone-in preferred
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Pork
Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. This helps it brown nicely.
Step 2: Making the Barbecue Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Step 3: Slow Cooking the Pork
Place the chopped onion and minced garlic in the bottom of a slow cooker. Place the pork shoulder on top of the onions and garlic. Pour the barbecue sauce evenly over the pork, ensuring it’s well coated. Cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is incredibly tender and easily shreds with a fork. For a faster cooking time, use high for 4-6 hours, but monitor closely.
Step 4: Shredding and Serving
Once the pork is cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before shredding with two forks. Skim off any excess grease from the cooking liquid in the slow cooker. You can mix some of this flavorful liquid back into the shredded pork for extra moisture and flavor. Serve the delicious barbecue on hamburger buns, alongside your favorite sides like coleslaw and potato salad.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Bone-in vs. Boneless: Bone-in pork shoulder is generally preferred for barbecue as the bone adds flavor and helps keep the meat moist.
- Don't Overcrowd the Slow Cooker: Ensure there's enough space in your slow cooker for the pork to cook evenly.
- Adjust the Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. For a milder barbecue, omit it entirely.
- Make it Ahead: This barbecue tastes even better the next day! You can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it gently before serving.
Variations:
- Add some liquid smoke: For an even smokier flavor, add a teaspoon or two of liquid smoke to the barbecue sauce.
- Use different spices: Experiment with other spices such as cumin, chili powder, or even a touch of cinnamon for a unique twist.
- Add some sweetness: A splash of molasses or maple syrup can add a delicious depth of sweetness to the sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-500 (depending on serving size and additions)
- Protein: High
- Fat: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: Moderate
This Upstate Coal Miners' Barbecue recipe is a testament to the deliciousness of simple ingredients and slow cooking. It’s a satisfying and flavorful meal that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this taste of Appalachian cooking tradition, and don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own! This easy recipe is sure to become a quick dinner idea you'll return to again and again. Remember to share your culinary creations with us!