Pop'S Barbecue Sauce

Cook: 120 min Cuisine: American

A smoky, tangy barbecue sauce with bold flavors, perfect for shredded pork sandwiches. Suits casual gatherings and summer cookouts, adding a homemade touch to your grilling.

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Ingredients

  • 2 medium cans tomato puree (8 oz. cans)
  • 1 1/2 to 2 cups vinegar
  • 1 stick margarine
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3 teaspoons pepper
  • 6 teaspoons mustard
  • 3 teaspoons hot sauce
  • 1, 2 or 3 teaspoons cayenne pepper
  • 1 (5 or 6 pound) pork shoulder

Instructions

  1. Cover the pork roast with water and boil slowly until well done. Cool, then shred into small pieces.
  2. Mix the sauce ingredients in a pan and simmer for 30 minutes.
  3. Add the shredded meat to the sauce and continue simmering, stirring occasionally, for about 1 hour.
  4. Serve on buns.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a tablespoon of brown sugar to the barbecue sauce. If you prefer a milder heat, start with 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper and adjust to taste. Using a bone-in pork shoulder can enhance the flavor further, as the bone adds depth to the sauce. Serve with American recipes like Three Beans for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the pulled pork on soft buns with a side of coleslaw for added crunch. Pair it with classic sides like baked beans or corn on the cob to complete your meal. This dish is perfect for gatherings and pairs beautifully with Twice Baked Potato Dish for a hearty feast.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Pop's Barbecue Sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the sauce in portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Pop'S Barbecue Sauce contains roughly 102 calories, with 3g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (56% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2262mg per serving (98% of the Daily Value).

102 kcal 5% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.9g 6% DV
Total Fat 3.8g 5% DV
Carbs 13.3g 5% DV
Fiber 2.3g 8% DV
Sugar 9.2g 18% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2262mg 98% DV
Potassium 286.9mg 6% DV
Cholesterol 2.9mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 167.3mcg 19% DV
Vitamin C 50.3mg 56% DV
Calcium 54.1mg 4% DV
Iron 1.1mg 6% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal

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 loin, but keep in mind that the cooking time may vary. Pork shoulder is preferred for its flavor and tenderness, as it contains more fat, making it ideal for shredding. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the meat is fully cooked and tender.

Is it possible to make this barbecue sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the barbecue sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste. Just remember to reheat it gently before adding the shredded meat to maintain its consistency and flavor.

What type of vinegar works best for this barbecue sauce?

Apple cider vinegar is commonly used for its mild sweetness and tang, which complements the tomato base well. However, you can also use white vinegar or even a mix of both for a slightly different flavor profile. Choose the vinegar that best suits your taste preferences for the best results.

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).

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