Boxcar Barbecue
Boxcar Barbecue is a hearty and flavorful dish featuring tender pork shoulder slow-cooked in a rich sauce of tomatoes, vinegar, soy sauce, and brown sugar. The blend of sweet and savory flavors makes it perfect for gatherings or family dinners, satisfying even the heartiest appetites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place pork in shallow roasting pan.
- Combine undrained tomatoes with rest of ingredients.
- Pour over meat.
- Bake, covered, in a 350° oven for 4 to 5 hours, until meat is tender.
- Uncover and bake 1 hour more.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use a bone-in pork shoulder for added flavor and moisture. If you prefer a tangier sauce, consider increasing the vinegar or adding a splash of apple cider vinegar. You can substitute the soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option. Letting the mixture marinate overnight can enhance the flavors before cooking. Pair this dish with Lorene'S Cornbread Salad for a delightful meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pulled pork on soft hamburger buns with a side of coleslaw for a classic barbecue experience. It also pairs wonderfully with Beans, Beans, Beans! for a hearty meal. For a lighter option, serve it with a fresh green salad. You can also use the barbecue pork as a filling for tacos or nachos.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze the cooked pork in portions for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, adding a splash of broth or sauce to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Boxcar Barbecue contains roughly 415 calories, with 8g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1312mg per serving (57% 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 different cut of meat for this recipe?
Yes, while pork shoulder is recommended for its tenderness and flavor, you can use pork butt or even a pork loin. However, note that pork loin may require a shorter cooking time to avoid drying out.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the sauce?
To add heat to the sauce, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Alternatively, you can balance the spice by adding more brown sugar for sweetness. Start with small amounts and adjust to your taste.
Is it necessary to cover the pork while baking?
Covering the pork while baking helps retain moisture, ensuring it stays tender and juicy. If the pork seems to be browning too quickly, you can cover it with foil during the last hour of cooking to prevent burning.
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).