Zesty Barbecued Pork
A flavorful and tangy barbecue pork dish with a spicy kick, perfect for family dinners or outdoor gatherings, featuring a savory tomato and vinegar-based sauce.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a regular-size oven cooking bag, place flour and shake to coat the inside.
- Add the pork shoulder and remaining ingredients to the bag.
- Close the bag with a nylon tie.
- Press the bag several times to mix everything well.
- Make a small slit in the bag near the tie.
- Place the bag in a microwave-safe, shallow, 2-quart casserole.
- Microwave on High for 30 minutes, rotating the dish a half turn after 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a thicker sauce, consider adding a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water during the last few minutes of cooking. You can substitute the pork shoulder with pork loin for a leaner option, but be cautious as it may dry out faster. Adjust the crushed red pepper to your spice preference, especially if serving alongside a milder dish like Isaacson Family Potato Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the zesty barbecued pork on a bun for a delicious sandwich, or alongside coleslaw for a classic BBQ meal. It pairs beautifully with Stuffed Jalapeno as an appetizer or as a side dish to balance the flavors. For a full meal, consider serving with cornbread and baked beans for a hearty spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pork in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel, and microwave on medium power until heated through, about 2-3 minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a saucepan over low heat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zesty Barbecued Pork contains roughly 132 calories, with 6g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (121% of the Daily Value), potassium (28% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 525mg per serving (23% 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 cook this recipe in the oven instead of the microwave?
Yes, you can cook this recipe in the oven. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C), place the bag in a casserole dish, and bake for 2.5 to 3 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shredded. Make sure to cut slits in the bag before baking to allow steam to escape.
What can I use instead of cider vinegar?
If you don’t have cider vinegar, white vinegar or red wine vinegar can be used as a substitute. Both will provide a similar acidity, but white vinegar may be a bit sharper. Adjust the quantity to taste, starting with a little less than the recipe calls for.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, this zesty barbecued pork can be frozen. Once cooled, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating 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).