Carolina Barbecue
Tender and flavorful Carolina Barbecue features slow-cooked pork simmered in a tangy, spicy tomato-based sauce, perfect for gatherings or casual cookouts with a smoky southern flair.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pierce the surface of the pork roast with a sharp knife.
- In a Dutch oven, brown the roast on all sides in hot vegetable oil.
- Meanwhile, in a bowl, combine water, tomato sauce, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, salt, pepper, celery seeds, chili powder, and hot pepper sauce.
- Pour the sauce over the browned roast and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 2 hours or until the pork is fork tender.
- Baste the roast with the sauce during cooking.
- Slice or chop the pork to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, let the pork marinate in the sauce overnight before cooking. If you prefer a spicier kick, add extra chili powder or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade. You can substitute the Boston Butt with another cut like shoulder or picnic roast, which yields similar results. For a smoky flavor, consider adding a few drops of liquid smoke to the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pulled pork on buns for delicious sandwiches, topped with coleslaw for added crunch and flavor. It pairs beautifully with classic sides like baked beans or cornbread, and for a refreshing touch, consider a side of pickles. This dish also goes well with a chilled glass of sweet tea or lemonade for a true Southern experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Carolina Barbecue can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or sauce to keep it moist. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carolina Barbecue contains roughly 198 calories, with 1g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (14% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value), and iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1160mg per serving (50% 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 pork roast, transfer it to the slow cooker with the sauce ingredients. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the pork is fork tender. This method will yield a very tender and flavorful result.
What can I do with leftover barbecue?
A classic way to use leftovers is to make barbecue quesadillas, combining the pork with cheese and grilling until crispy. This not only prevents waste but also creates a delicious new dish.
How long should I cook the pork for?
The pork should be simmered for about 2 hours or until it becomes fork tender. If using a slow cooker, the cooking time will vary; aim for 8-10 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high. The key is to ensure it’s cooked thoroughly and easy to shred.
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).