Pulled pork burger with creamy coleslaw and pickles

Pulled pork burgers: Is there anything more satisfying? The smoky, tender pork, the cool, creamy coleslaw, and the tangy zing of pickles…it’s a flavor explosion in every bite! But making the perfect pulled pork burger takes more than just throwing some ingredients together. We’re here to guide you through crafting the ultimate pulled pork burger experience. Get ready to impress your friends and family!

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Crafting the Perfect Pulled Pork

Let’s start with the star of the show: the pulled pork itself. Achieving that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and smoky flavor requires a little know-how.

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Choosing the Right Cut of Pork

The best cut for pulled pork is undoubtedly the pork shoulder, also known as Boston butt. It has a good amount of fat marbling, which renders during the cooking process, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.

* **Bone-in vs. Boneless:** Bone-in generally imparts more flavor, but boneless is easier to work with and shred. Your call!
* **Size Matters:** A larger shoulder (8-10 pounds) will take longer to cook but will yield more pulled pork.

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Mastering the Low and Slow Cook

The key to tender pulled pork is patience. We’re talking *low and slow* cooking, whether you’re using a smoker, slow cooker, or oven.

1. **Smoking:** Aim for a consistent temperature of 225-250°F (107-121°C). Use your favorite wood chips (hickory and applewood are popular choices).
2. **Slow Cooker:** Cook on low for 8-10 hours.
3. **Oven:** Roast at 275°F (135°C) for 6-8 hours, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 203°F (95°C).

Remember to use a meat thermometer! It’s your best friend in the pulled pork game.

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The Secret to Flavorful Pulled Pork: The Rub

Don’t skimp on the rub! This is where you can really customize the flavor. A good base rub typically includes:

* Brown sugar
* Paprika (smoked paprika adds a great smoky depth)
* Garlic powder
* Onion powder
* Salt
* Pepper
* Cayenne pepper (for a little kick)

Apply the rub generously to all sides of the pork shoulder at least a few hours before cooking, or even better, overnight.

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Creamy Coleslaw: The Perfect Counterpoint

A tangy, creamy coleslaw is the perfect counterpoint to the richness of the pulled pork. Forget that bland, mayo-heavy stuff! Let’s make something special.

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The Base: Cabbage and Carrots

Finely shredded green cabbage and carrots are the foundation of any good coleslaw. You can buy pre-shredded mixes for convenience, but shredding your own gives you better control over the texture.

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The Dressing: Creamy, Tangy, and Delicious

The dressing is what elevates coleslaw from ordinary to extraordinary. Here’s a classic recipe:

* 1/2 cup mayonnaise
* 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
* 1 tablespoon sugar
* 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
* 1/2 teaspoon celery seed
* Salt and pepper to taste

Adjust the ingredients to your liking. Some people prefer more tang, others prefer it sweeter. Experiment and find your perfect balance!

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Pickles: That Essential Tangy Zing

Don’t underestimate the power of pickles! They add a crucial element of acidity that cuts through the richness of the pulled pork and coleslaw.

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Choosing the Right Pickle

Dill pickles are a classic choice, but don’t be afraid to get creative! Bread and butter pickles offer a sweeter, slightly tangy alternative. Spicy pickles can add an extra layer of heat.

* **Sliced vs. Spears:** Sliced pickles are easier to distribute evenly on the burger, but pickle spears offer a satisfying crunch.

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Homemade Pickles (Optional, but Amazing!)

If you’re feeling ambitious, try making your own pickles! The process is surprisingly simple, and the results are far superior to store-bought varieties. There are tons of great recipes online.

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Assembling Your Pulled Pork Burger Masterpiece

Now for the fun part! Here’s how to build the perfect pulled pork burger:

1. **Toast the Buns:** Lightly toasting the buns prevents them from getting soggy.
2. **Layer the Coleslaw:** Spread a generous layer of coleslaw on the bottom bun.
3. **Pile on the Pulled Pork:** Add a generous portion of pulled pork on top of the coleslaw.
4. **Top with Pickles:** Arrange your pickle slices or spears on top of the pulled pork.
5. **Add BBQ Sauce (Optional):** A drizzle of your favorite BBQ sauce can add even more flavor.
6. **Top with the Bun:** Carefully place the top bun on the burger.

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Conclusion

So there you have it – a comprehensive guide to crafting the ultimate pulled pork burger with creamy coleslaw and pickles. Remember, the key is to start with high-quality ingredients, take your time with the cooking process, and don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors. Now go forth and create a burger that will have everyone begging for more! Don’t forget to share your creations and tag us! #pulledporkburger #coleslaw #pickles