Picking Pork
Tender, flavorful pulled pork with a smoky pepper crust, perfect for buffets, sandwiches, and pairing with barbecue sauce, offering an unforgettable taste experience.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Trim the ham, leaving a small amount of fat for flavor during cooking.
- Remove all skin and brine from the ham.
- Rub the fresh ham thoroughly with vinegar.
- Press seasoned pepper onto the ham, ensuring it adheres well to the surface.
- Wrap the ham tightly in heavy-duty foil.
- Place in a roasting pan and bake at 200°F (93°C) overnight or for at least 10 hours.
- When unwrapped, the pork should fall apart or shred easily with a fork.
- Place on a large serving platter on a buffet table for guests to 'pick' at it.
- Serve with your favorite barbecue sauce.
- Save the juices from the ham and cook rice in it for enhanced flavor.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, choose a fresh ham with a good amount of marbling. If you don't have seasoned pepper, a blend of black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika can work well. Consider using apple cider vinegar for a hint of sweetness. Be sure to monitor the cooking time, as different ovens may vary. This method also works great with other pork recipes, so feel free to experiment.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pulled pork on a large platter for guests to enjoy at gatherings. It pairs beautifully with Old Fashion Lettuce Salad for a refreshing contrast and West Virginia Reunion Beans for a hearty side. Consider offering a variety of barbecue sauces for dipping, and add buns for those who want to make sandwiches.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover pulled pork can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth or barbecue sauce to keep it moist. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Picking Pork contains roughly 21 calories, with 4g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 1g 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 loin or ribs, but cooking times may vary. Adjust accordingly, ensuring the pork reaches an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C) for safety. Just remember that different cuts may yield different textures and flavors.
How can I enhance the flavor of the pork?
You can enhance the flavor by marinating the pork in a mixture of vinegar and spices a few hours before cooking. Adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the foil can also infuse the meat with additional flavor as it cooks slowly.
What should I do with the leftover juices?
The leftover juices can be saved and used as a flavorful broth for cooking rice or making soups. Simply strain the juices and simmer them with rice for an extra layer of flavor, making it a delicious accompaniment to your pulled pork.
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).