Looking for an easy and delicious meal that is perfect for any occasion? Look no further than this mouth-watering BBQ pulled pork and rice recipe. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal to feed your family or want to impress friends at your next dinner party, this recipe is perfect. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and can be customized to suit your preferences. So, let’s dive in and explore how to make this delicious meal step by step.

Ingredients You Need for This BBQ Pulled Pork and Rice Recipe

Before we get started with the recipe, let’s go over the ingredients you’ll need:

• 2-3 pound boneless pork shoulder or Boston butt
• 1 and ½ cups barbecue sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups water or broth (for the rice)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing BBQ Pulled Pork and Rice

Once you have all your ingredients, it’s time to get cooking! Here’s how to prepare BBQ pulled pork and rice:

1. Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. Mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
3. Rub the spice mix all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the pork shoulder in a baking dish and cover it with foil.
5. Bake the pork shoulder for 4-5 hours or until it is tender and falls apart easily.
6. Remove the pork from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before shredding it with two forks.
7. While the pork is cooling, prepare the rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork.
8. In a small saucepan, combine the barbecue sauce and 1/4 cup of water. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
9. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium-high heat.
10. Add the shredded pork to the skillet and cook until it is crispy and browned on the edges, about 5-7 minutes.
11. Add the heated barbecue sauce to the skillet and stir to combine with the pork.
12. Divide the cooked rice between bowls or plates and top with the pulled pork and sauce.

For an extra kick of flavor, you can add some chopped onions and green peppers to the skillet when cooking the pulled pork. This will add a delicious crunch and a pop of color to your dish. You can also serve the pulled pork and rice with a side of coleslaw or a fresh salad to balance out the richness of the dish.

Tips for Choosing the Right Cut of Pork for This Recipe

When selecting pork for this recipe, look for a boneless pork shoulder or Boston butt. These cuts are perfect for slow-cooking as they are well-marbled and full of flavor. Be sure to trim off any large pieces of fat before cooking.

Another great option for this recipe is a pork loin. This cut is leaner than a shoulder or butt, but still has a good amount of flavor. It’s important to not overcook a pork loin, as it can become dry. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F.

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, try using pork chops. Look for bone-in chops that are at least 1 inch thick. These will hold up better during the slow-cooking process and won’t dry out as easily. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How to Make Your Own BBQ Sauce for the Recipe

If you’d like to make your own BBQ sauce for this recipe, simply combine 1 cup ketchup, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a medium saucepan. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes until the sauce has thickened and is heated through.

However, if you prefer a spicier BBQ sauce, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce to the mixture. This will give your sauce a nice kick and add some heat to your dish.

Additionally, if you want to make your BBQ sauce more unique, you can experiment with different ingredients such as honey, molasses, or even bourbon. These ingredients will add a different flavor profile to your sauce and make it stand out from the rest.

Different Types of Rice You Can Use in This Recipe

While this recipe calls for long-grain rice, you can use any type of rice you prefer. Brown rice, jasmine rice, or even wild rice would all work well in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio according to the instructions on the package.

It’s worth noting that different types of rice can also add unique flavors and textures to the dish. For example, brown rice has a nuttier flavor and chewier texture than white rice, while jasmine rice has a fragrant aroma and slightly sticky texture. Wild rice adds a nutty and earthy flavor, and its long grains can add visual interest to the dish. Experimenting with different types of rice can take this recipe to the next level!

Serving Suggestions for BBQ Pulled Pork and Rice

This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be served in many different ways. Serve it over a bed of greens for a healthy BBQ pulled pork salad, or on top of a toasted bun for a classic BBQ pulled pork sandwich. You can even add some coleslaw or pickles on top for an extra crunch.

Another great way to enjoy this dish is to serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice. The savory flavors of the BBQ pulled pork complement the mild taste of the rice, creating a delicious and satisfying meal. You can also add some diced tomatoes or avocado on top for a burst of freshness. This dish is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or for a casual gathering with friends and family.

Easy Variations to Make on the Recipe for More Flavor Options

Want to mix things up a bit? Try adding some diced onions or bell peppers to the skillet when cooking the pork. You can also experiment with different BBQ sauces to find your favorite flavor profile. A smoky chipotle sauce or sweet honey BBQ sauce would be delicious in this recipe.

If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using turkey or chicken instead of pork. You can also swap out the white rice for brown rice or quinoa for added fiber and nutrients.

For a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix. If you prefer a milder flavor, omit the chili powder and use paprika instead.

How to Store Leftover BBQ Pulled Pork and Rice

If you have leftovers, store the pulled pork and rice in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, be sure to add a splash of water or broth to the pork to keep it moist.

It’s important to note that when reheating rice, it should be heated to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat. To reheat, add a tablespoon of water to the rice and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat the rice in a saucepan on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Nutritional Information for This Delicious and Healthy Meal

Wondering how healthy this meal is? Here are the nutritional facts:

• Calories: 580
• Protein: 34g
• Fat: 21g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 26g
• Sodium: 1243mg

Enjoy your delicious and healthy meal!

In addition to the nutritional information provided above, it is important to note that this meal is also rich in vitamins and minerals. The chicken in this dish is a great source of protein, while the vegetables provide a variety of vitamins such as vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium.

Furthermore, this meal is low in saturated fat and cholesterol, making it a heart-healthy option. It is also a great choice for those who are looking to maintain a healthy weight, as it is filling and satisfying without being too high in calories.