Fresh Pork Barbecue

Cook: 25 min Cuisine: American

A smoky, tangy pork barbecue with rich flavors, perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners, featuring shredded pork in a savory tomato-based sauce.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 medium size fresh picnic shoulder
  • 1/2 cup catsup
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 tablespoon dry mustard
  • 2/3 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2/3 cup vinegar
  • 1 medium onion

Instructions

  1. Cook the pork shoulder in a pressure cooker until it falls off the bone.
  2. While the pork is cooking, simmer the ingredients in a frying pan to make the sauce.
  3. Once the pork is done, shred or pull it into pieces.
  4. Add the shredded pork into the sauce and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider marinating the pork shoulder overnight with the sauce ingredients. If you don't have Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce can be a good substitute. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the sauce while it simmers. Also, using a slow cooker instead of a pressure cooker can yield tender results as well.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this fresh pork barbecue on soft buns for delicious sandwiches, and pair it with coleslaw for a classic combination. It also goes well with baked beans or corn on the cob. For a refreshing drink, consider serving with Hot Cranberry-Lemon Tea to balance the savory flavors.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover pork barbecue can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Fresh Pork Barbecue contains roughly 205 calories, with 1g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2021mg per serving (88% of the Daily Value).

205 kcal 10% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1g 2% DV
Total Fat 4.3g 5% DV
Carbs 41g 15% DV
Fiber 1.2g 4% DV
Sugar 35.5g 71% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2021.4mg 88% DV
Potassium 280.8mg 6% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 19.2mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 27.5mg 31% DV
Calcium 58.6mg 5% DV
Iron 1.5mg 8% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat

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 pork for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other cuts like pork butt or pork loin. However, the picnic shoulder is ideal for shredding due to its higher fat content, which keeps the meat moist and flavorful. Adjust cooking times accordingly if you choose a leaner cut.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

To add spice, incorporate chopped jalapeños or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes into the sauce. You can also serve the finished dish with your favorite hot sauce on the side, allowing guests to customize their heat level.

What type of vinegar works best for the sauce?

Apple cider vinegar is recommended for its mild sweetness and acidity, which enhances the barbecue flavor. However, white vinegar can also be used if that's what you have on hand. Just be cautious with the amount, as it has a stronger taste.

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).

American recipes → Vegan recipes → Vegetarian recipes → All recipes →