Whether you’re making a savory supper for your family or enjoying a backyard BBQ, pulled pork is a staple of an excellent, protein-rich meal. For many, the scent of juicy pulled pork wafting on the breeze is reminiscent of summer months, but this particular meat can be enjoyed at any time of the year. Making pulled pork is a labor of love, whether you’re smoking it, oven-roasting it, or braising it.
And there seem to be as many ways of preparing pulled pork as there are regions of the United States! In Kansas City, for instance, you’re looking at pulled pork served in a tomato-based barbeque sauce. Eating pulled pork in the South will differ whether you’re feasting on Eastern Carolina or Western Carolina style. Texas encompasses four styles, plus Mexican-inspired pulled pork recipes like barbacoa. Memphis uses dry rubs and heavy spices, but tends to be sauce-free.
Pork carries a tremendous amount of flavor, and each way of preparing it will yield different results. But one thing’s for certain: if you’re making your pulled pork recipe from scratch (and you’re not feeding a massive crowd), you’re probably going to be left with a fair amount of extra meat. Here’s what to do with the remaining meat from your pork shoulder or pork butt, so you can continue to enjoy it after the initial meal is over.
Safely Storing Leftover Pulled Pork
One of the best things about pulled pork is how easy it is to store and enjoy as leftovers! Who doesn’t love to whip up a pulled pork sandwich for lunch a few days after having it for dinner? This hearty meat can be refrigerated for use throughout the next few days after the initial preparation and cooking, or frozen to enjoy later on.
If you’re planning to eat the remainder of your pulled pork within three or four days, the fridge is a great option. To most effectively lock in flavor, use sealed plastic bags or storage containers like tupperware. Be sure to compress as much air out of the storage container as possible, so that the meat doesn’t spoil.
When it comes to freezing leftover pulled pork, you’ll want to use a vacuum sealed bag or a sealable plastic freezer bag. It’s a good idea to wrap the meat in plastic foil, then place it in the sealed bag, again compressing the air out in order to avoid spoilage and loss of flavor.
Double-wrapping pulled pork when freezing not only keeps the meat fresh, but also your freezer smelling clean! When you’re ready to heat it up for another finger-licking meal, simply defrost it in an airtight bag in cool water in the sink, or overnight in the fridge, and reheat over low heat on the stove.
Popular Pulled Pork Recipes
The first thing that comes to mind for most people upon mention of pulled pork is the classic pulled pork sandwich. This is always a favorite among crowds especially because it’s quite filling and can be dressed with each person’s favorite condiments. Do you prefer smokey barbeque sauce, vinegar, slaw? But there are other ways to incorporate pulled pork into some sublime bite-sized recipes.
Looking for something to munch on before dinner? Add a bit of pulled pork to your nachos for some extra protein. Salty, succulent pulled pork can add a nice complement to the zesty chips and cheese.
Pulled Pork Bites
Pulled Pork Bites can also be quickly prepped and served within a matter of minutes for those hungry children or guests that unexpectedly stop by. This recipe includes the option to garnish the bites with a creamy coleslaw, which always makes a wonderful companion to pork.
Pulled Pork Stuffed Potato Skins
Another popular appetizer choice is the delectable combo of pulled pork and potato skins. These stuffed skins take a little longer to make, but they’re perfect for your next get-together or simply as a side for a family dinner. Top with sour cream and chives for that ultimate baked potato taste.
7-Layer Tostadas with Pulled Pork
And if you’re looking for more of a meal than an appetizer, our 7-Layer Tostadas are a surefire way to fill your family members’ bellies. Plus, offering a variety of toppings makes a “tostada bar” a fun option for the kiddos!
Coleman Natural’s Line of Premium Pulled Pork Products
If you’re passionate about home cooking, you’ll probably enjoy smoking or braising pulled pork from a bone-in pork butt or boneless pork butt. And if you want to ensure you’re picking the highest quality meat, look no further than Coleman Natural Foods. Our all-natural fresh pork is selected from U.S. family farms that raise their animals crate-free and never use antibiotics or added hormones.
No matter what you choose to do with your leftover pulled pork – how you opt to dress your sandwich, or what types of sides you combine with your main dish – this is undoubtedly a scrumptious meal that will last for days or weeks to come.
