Going Against the "Pulled Pork" Trend: Exploring the Best Cuts for Sliced BBQ Pork Sandwiches

When it comes to creating a delicious BBQ pork sandwich, many recipes turn to the well-loved "pulled pork." This trend typically favors the fattier cuts that easily break apart when cooked, such as the Boston Pork Butt or Pork Shoulder. However, these cuts might not always yield the best results for a sliced BBQ pork sandwich. In this article, we explore different cuts of pork and which one is the best for sliced BBQ pork sandwiches.

The Myth of the "Pulled Pork" Cut

Many people assume that pulled pork is made exclusively from the Pork Butt or Boston Pork Butt. However, this term is somewhat misleading because the meat actually comes from the shoulder area of the pig. It's called a "butter" or "boneless butt" in California, despite being part of the shoulder. It's important to note that this cut is very fatty and perfect for pulling apart and making mouthwatering pulled pork dishes.

Opting for a Different Cut: Pork Tenderloin or Loin

For a sliced BBQ pork sandwich, you might want a cut that can be easily sliced and still holds up well to the barbecue. The pork tenderloin or loin is an excellent choice:

Tenderloin: Extremely tender, it retains its flavor very well after being grilled. Pork Loin: Located at the end of the tenderloin, this cut is larger and holds up well to the heat of the grill.

Both cuts are highly suitable for slicing and making traditional BBQ pork sandwiches. The tenderloin, in particular, is known for its flavor and texture, making it a popular choice among barbecue enthusiasts.

Other Suitable Cuts

While the pork butt or shoulder is commonly used for making pulled pork, it can also be sliced. Here are a couple of alternatives:

Boston Butt Roast: Primarily used for pulled pork, it can be cut into thinner slices for sandwiches. Pork Butt/Pork Shoulder: Thinned and sliced, this cut can also be enjoyed in a sandwich.

Ultimately, the best cut comes down to personal preference. Some people enjoy the chopped pork in a BBQ sandwich, knowing only too well that if the barbecue is good, all the meat in the sandwich is good. Others opt for a roasted pork butt or ham and then slice it for sandwiches. These cuts typically contain more fat, which can give the meat a richer flavor and texture.

Experimenting with Different Ingredients

For those who want to try something different, you can experiment with undercooked bacon trimmings. This unique ingredient can add an extra layer of flavor to your BBQ pork sandwich. Here’s a simple recipe:

Place chopped bacon trimmings in a deep casserole pan on the lowest rack of the oven and broil them until they are tender and floppy. Use a rolled towel to collect excess grease. Chop the bacon trimmings into a confetti-like texture and serve with cheese, BBQ sauce, and toppings such as onions, peppers, and rice, all piled high on a toasted bun with mayo.

Another approach is to roast a pork butt or ham and slice it, as these cuts contain more fat and are more robust in flavor.

Personal Touches: Adding Flavor and Texture

To enhance your BBQ pork sandwich, consider using a pork loin or belly and grilling it to create a glaze. The sauce can be added in layers, and you can add personal touches such as onions and sweet relish.

Ultimately, the choice of cut depends on your preferences and the type of BBQ sandwich you want to create. Whether you opt for the tender cuts, the less traditional bacon trimmings, or a robust pork butt, the key is to find the cut that delivers the best flavor and texture for your sandwich.