Pulled Pork Plate with Baked Beans Recipe: Easy and Delicious Comfort Food
Introduction
In the realm of mouthwatering comfort foods, few dishes can rival the satisfaction of a perfectly executed Pulled Pork Plate with Baked Beans. This classic American meal combines tender, juicy pulled pork with savory baked beans, creating a symphony of flavors and textures that delights the senses. If you’re looking to master this culinary masterpiece and impress your guests, look no further. Our comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, ensuring your success in the kitchen and at the table.
Ingredients for Pulled Pork
To begin your journey towards pulled pork perfection, gather the following ingredients:
- 3-4 pounds pork shoulder (also known as pork butt), trimmed of excess fat
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth or water
Creating the Perfect Dry Rub
First, prepare a tantalizing dry rub by combining brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. This blend of spices will infuse your pork with layers of flavor, ensuring each bite is a delight.
Preparing the Pork
- Massage the dry rub generously all over the pork shoulder, ensuring every inch is coated.
- Place the seasoned pork shoulder in a slow cooker or crockpot.
- Pour in the barbecue sauce and chicken broth (or water) around the pork.
Slow-Cooking to Perfection
Set your slow cooker to low heat and allow the pork to cook for 8-10 hours, or opt for high heat and cook for 5-6 hours. The pork should become incredibly tender, practically falling apart at the touch.
Shredding the Pork
Once cooked, use two forks to shred the pork within the slow cooker. Incorporate the cooking juices to keep the meat moist and flavorful.
Ingredients for Baked Beans
While the pork is cooking, gather the ingredients needed for the accompanying baked beans:
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) navy beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Preparing the Baked Beans
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the drained beans with barbecue sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer the bean mixture into a baking dish.
Baking the Beans
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, allowing the beans to become bubbly and the sauce to thicken.
Serving the Pulled Pork Plate
To assemble your Pulled Pork Plate with Baked Beans:
- Arrange a generous portion of pulled pork alongside a serving of baked beans on each plate.
- For added delight, consider serving with coleslaw, cornbread, or pickles on the side.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve mastered the art of creating a sensational Pulled Pork Plate with Baked Beans. This classic dish is sure to leave a lasting impression on your family and friends. Enjoy the rich flavors and textures of this beloved comfort food.
