Barbecue Pig Tail
Tender and flavorful barbecue pig tails simmered with vegetables and seasoned with vinegar and spices, then finished with barbecue sauce for a smoky, savory delight.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put pig tails in a roaster pan with chopped onion, chopped celery, chopped green pepper, vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cover the pan with water and bake at 350°F until very tender.
- Pour off all liquid from the pan.
- Add barbecue sauce and hot chili pepper to the pig tails.
- Bake with the lid off for 10 minutes to finish.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, marinate the pig tails in the vinegar and spices overnight before baking. If you can't find pig tails, you can substitute with pork belly or ribs for a similar texture and taste. Adjust the amount of garlic powder according to your preference, and consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the barbecue pig tails with a side of Peanutty Broccoli Slaw for a refreshing crunch. Coleslaw or cornbread also makes an excellent pairing. For a complete meal, consider serving these with a chilled glass of Run For The Roses Punch to balance the richness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pig tails in a baking dish with a little water or sauce, cover with foil, and heat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecue Pig Tail contains roughly 12 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 509mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use a slow cooker. After browning the vegetables, transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the pig tails are tender. Just be sure to add the barbecue sauce towards the end of cooking.
What can I do if the pig tails are tough after baking?
If the pig tails are tough, they may need more cooking time. Cover the pan with foil and return it to the oven, checking every 15-20 minutes until they reach the desired tenderness. Adding a bit more liquid can also help in the tenderizing process.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pig tails up to the point of adding the barbecue sauce, then refrigerate. When ready to serve, simply add the sauce and bake as directed. This makes it convenient for gatherings or meal prep.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).