Prepare to embark on a flavor-filled journey with our Whiskey Barbecue Pork recipe. This mouthwatering dish combines succulent and tender pork with the rich, smoky flavors of a whiskey-infused barbecue sauce. The result is a harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and savory notes that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or looking for a delicious meal to share with family and friends, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Join us as we delve into the history, techniques, and step-by-step instructions to create this irresistible Whiskey Barbecue Pork.

Barbecue is deeply rooted in American culinary history, with each region boasting its own unique style and flavors. Whiskey Barbecue Pork pays homage to the tradition of slow-cooked meats, infused with the bold and distinctive taste of whiskey.

The smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors of whiskey-infused barbecue sauce add a layer of complexity to the pork, elevating it to a new level of deliciousness. This recipe brings together the time-honored techniques of low and slow cooking and the flavors of whiskey, resulting in a mouthwatering dish that showcases the best of American barbecue.

PREP: 15 MIN.

COOK: 6 HOURS

MAKES: 8 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• 3 pounds pork shoulder or pork butt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/2 cup whiskey (your preferred variety)
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a large oven-safe Dutch oven or deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Season the pork shoulder or pork butt with salt and black pepper. Sear the pork on all sides in the hot oil until it develops a rich brown crust. This step enhances the flavor and texture of the meat.
4. Remove the seared pork from the Dutch oven and set it aside.
5. In the same Dutch oven, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
6. Add the ketchup, whiskey, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and a pinch of salt to the Dutch oven. Stir well to combine the ingredients and bring the mixture to a simmer.
7. Return the seared pork to the Dutch oven, ensuring it is submerged in the barbecue sauce.
8. Cover the Dutch oven with a lid or aluminum foil, and transfer it to the preheated oven.
9. Slow-cook the pork for approximately 3-4 hours, or until it becomes tender and easily shreds with a fork. The internal temperature should reach at least 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare or 160°F (71°C) for medium.
10. Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
11. Using two forks, shred the Whiskey Barbecue Pork, pulling it apart into smaller pieces.
12. Serve the shredded pork on a platter, spooning some of the barbecue sauce from the Dutch oven over the top for added flavor and moisture.
13. Optionally, garnish with chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, to add freshness and visual appeal.

NOTES:

• Indulge in the smoky and irresistible flavors of Whiskey Barbecue Pork, a culinary delight that brings together the best of slow-cooked meats and the rich complexity of whiskey-infused barbecue sauce. This recipe allows you to savor the tender and flavorful pork, perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or enjoying on its own. Share this mouthwatering dish with family and friends, and revel in the enticing aromas and deliciousness that define the art of American barbecue.