Pulled pork is a classic American dish that has gained popularity worldwide for its tender, juicy texture and rich flavor. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, a casual dinner party, or a large gathering, pulled pork is always a crowd-pleaser. However, the success of this dish largely depends on the sides that accompany it. In this article, we’ll explore the best sides to serve with pulled pork, including traditional favorites, modern twists, and some unexpected surprises.
Classic Sides for Pulled Pork
When it comes to pairing sides with pulled pork, some options are more traditional than others. These classic sides have been served alongside pulled pork for decades and are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a timeless favorite that pairs perfectly with the rich flavor of pulled pork. A creamy coleslaw made with shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, and a variety of spices helps balance the fattiness of the pork. You can also add some grated carrot or onion to give it an extra boost of flavor.
Baked Beans
Baked beans are another classic side dish that goes hand-in-hand with pulled pork. Sweet and smoky, baked beans are made with haricot beans, tomato sauce, and a blend of spices. They’re easy to make and can be cooked in a slow cooker or oven.
Grilled Corn on the Cob
Grilled corn on the cob is a summer staple that pairs perfectly with pulled pork. Slathered with butter, seasoned with salt and pepper, and grilled to perfection, corn on the cob is a delicious side dish that’s sure to please.
Collard Greens
Collard greens are a Southern favorite that pairs well with the rich flavor of pulled pork. Braised in a flavorful broth with some pork or bacon, collard greens are a nutritious and delicious side dish that’s packed with vitamins and minerals.
Modern Twists on Classic Sides
While classic sides are always a hit, it’s also fun to experiment with modern twists on traditional favorites. Here are some creative ideas to get you started:
Kimchi Coleslaw
Add some Korean flair to your coleslaw by incorporating kimchi into the mix. Spicy and sour, kimchi coleslaw is a refreshing twist on the classic recipe.
BBQ Baked Beans with Burnt Ends
Take your baked beans to the next level by adding some burnt ends to the mix. Burnt ends are the crispy, flavorful ends of brisket that are perfect for adding texture and flavor to your baked beans.
Grilled Corn with Cotija Cheese and Chili Powder
Add some Mexican flair to your grilled corn by sprinkling it with Cotija cheese and chili powder. This flavorful combination is sure to be a hit with your guests.
Braised Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey
Add some smoky flavor to your collard greens by braising them with smoked turkey. This hearty side dish is perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Unexpected Sides to Serve with Pulled Pork
While classic sides are always a hit, it’s also fun to experiment with unexpected sides that will surprise and delight your guests. Here are some creative ideas to get you started:
Pickled Carrots
Pickled carrots are a tangy and refreshing side dish that pairs perfectly with the rich flavor of pulled pork. Simply slice up some carrots, soak them in a brine made with vinegar and spices, and serve.
Roasted Sweet Potato Salad
Roasted sweet potato salad is a delicious and healthy side dish that’s perfect for a summer gathering. Simply roast some sweet potatoes in the oven, then toss them with some mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette.
Spicy Pineapple Slaw
Spicy pineapple slaw is a sweet and tangy side dish that pairs perfectly with the smoky flavor of pulled pork. Simply combine some shredded pineapple, red cabbage, and jalapeño peppers, then dress with a spicy mayo.
Crispy Fried Okra
Crispy fried okra is a Southern favorite that pairs perfectly with pulled pork. Simply dredge some okra pods in a spicy breading, then fry them up in some hot oil until crispy.
International Inspiration for Pulled Pork Sides
Pulled pork is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of international sides. Here are some creative ideas to get you started:
Korean-Style Kimchi Fried Rice
Kimchi fried rice is a spicy and savory side dish that pairs perfectly with pulled pork. Simply cook some rice, then stir-fry it with some kimchi, soy sauce, and scrambled eggs.
Mexican Street Corn Salad
Mexican street corn salad is a flavorful and refreshing side dish that’s perfect for a summer gathering. Simply combine some grilled corn, diced tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro, then dress with a tangy lime juice.
German-Style Braised Red Cabbage
Braised red cabbage is a hearty and comforting side dish that pairs perfectly with pulled pork. Simply cook some red cabbage with some apples and onions, then braise it in a flavorful broth with some caraway seeds.
Conclusion
Pulled pork is a delicious and versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of sides. From classic favorites like coleslaw and baked beans to modern twists and international inspiration, there are countless options to choose from. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or a casual dinner party, these sides are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. So next time you’re serving pulled pork, don’t be afraid to get creative and try something new!
| Sides | Description |
|---|---|
| Coleslaw | A creamy coleslaw made with shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, and a variety of spices. |
| Baked Beans | Sweet and smoky beans made with haricot beans, tomato sauce, and a blend of spices. |
| Grilled Corn on the Cob | Grilled corn on the cob slathered with butter, seasoned with salt and pepper. |
| Collard Greens | Braised collard greens with some pork or bacon, perfect for a cold winter’s night. |
| Pickled Carrots | Tangy and refreshing pickled carrots, perfect for a summer gathering. |
| Roasted Sweet Potato Salad | A delicious and healthy roasted sweet potato salad, perfect for a summer gathering. |
| Spicy Pineapple Slaw | A sweet and tangy spicy pineapple slaw, perfect for a summer gathering. |
| Crispy Fried Okra | Crispy fried okra, a Southern favorite that pairs perfectly with pulled pork. |
- Classic Sides: Coleslaw, Baked Beans, Grilled Corn on the Cob, Collard Greens
- Modern Twists: Kimchi Coleslaw, BBQ Baked Beans with Burnt Ends, Grilled Corn with Cotija Cheese and Chili Powder, Braised Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey
- Unexpected Sides: Pickled Carrots, Roasted Sweet Potato Salad, Spicy Pineapple Slaw, Crispy Fried Okra
- International Inspiration: Korean-Style Kimchi Fried Rice, Mexican Street Corn Salad, German-Style Braised Red Cabbage
What are some classic Southern sides that pair well with pulled pork?
When it comes to classic Southern sides that pair well with pulled pork, there are several options to consider. One popular choice is coleslaw, which provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, smoky flavor of the pork. Another option is baked beans, which are sweet, smoky, and pair perfectly with the tangy flavor of barbecue sauce. Other classic Southern sides that pair well with pulled pork include collard greens, mac and cheese, and cornbread.
These sides offer a variety of textures and flavors that complement the pulled pork nicely. For example, the crunch of coleslaw provides a nice contrast to the tender, juicy pork, while the creaminess of mac and cheese helps to balance out the spiciness of the barbecue sauce. By serving one or more of these classic Southern sides alongside your pulled pork, you can create a well-rounded and delicious meal that is sure to please.
What are some lighter side options that can help balance out the richness of pulled pork?
If you’re looking for lighter side options to serve with pulled pork, there are several choices to consider. One option is a simple green salad, which provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, smoky flavor of the pork. Another option is grilled or roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini, which are light, flavorful, and pair well with the tangy flavor of barbecue sauce.
Other lighter side options that can help balance out the richness of pulled pork include corn on the cob, sliced cucumbers, and pickles. These sides offer a variety of textures and flavors that can help cut the richness of the pork, while also providing a refreshing contrast to the smoky flavor. By serving one or more of these lighter side options alongside your pulled pork, you can create a well-rounded and delicious meal that is sure to please.
What are some creative side options that can add some excitement to a pulled pork meal?
If you’re looking for creative side options to serve with pulled pork, there are several choices to consider. One option is a spicy cornbread salad, which combines the classic flavors of cornbread with the spicy kick of jalapenos and the tangy flavor of barbecue sauce. Another option is a sweet potato gratin, which is a creamy, flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with the rich, smoky flavor of the pork.
Other creative side options that can add some excitement to a pulled pork meal include a tangy slaw made with red cabbage and carrots, a flavorful side of braised greens, and a crispy onion ring salad. These sides offer a variety of textures and flavors that can help add some excitement to a pulled pork meal, while also providing a delicious contrast to the smoky flavor of the pork. By serving one or more of these creative side options alongside your pulled pork, you can create a memorable and delicious meal that is sure to impress.
What are some side options that can be made ahead of time to make serving pulled pork easier?
If you’re looking for side options that can be made ahead of time to make serving pulled pork easier, there are several choices to consider. One option is coleslaw, which can be made up to a day in advance and refrigerated until serving. Another option is baked beans, which can be made up to two days in advance and reheated until hot and bubbly.
Other side options that can be made ahead of time include mac and cheese, which can be made up to a day in advance and refrigerated until serving, and cornbread, which can be made up to two days in advance and reheated until crispy. By making one or more of these side options ahead of time, you can save time and effort when serving pulled pork, while also ensuring that your meal is delicious and well-rounded.
What are some side options that are perfect for a pulled pork barbecue or outdoor gathering?
If you’re hosting a pulled pork barbecue or outdoor gathering, there are several side options that are perfect for the occasion. One option is a classic potato salad, which is easy to make in large quantities and can be served at room temperature. Another option is a refreshing side of watermelon, which is light, flavorful, and perfect for hot summer days.
Other side options that are perfect for a pulled pork barbecue or outdoor gathering include grilled or roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or bell peppers, and a tangy side of coleslaw. These sides offer a variety of textures and flavors that can help add some excitement to your gathering, while also providing a delicious contrast to the smoky flavor of the pork. By serving one or more of these side options at your pulled pork barbecue or outdoor gathering, you can create a memorable and delicious meal that is sure to please.
What are some side options that can help stretch a pulled pork meal to feed a large crowd?
If you’re looking for side options that can help stretch a pulled pork meal to feed a large crowd, there are several choices to consider. One option is a hearty side of mac and cheese, which is easy to make in large quantities and can be served alongside the pulled pork. Another option is a flavorful side of baked beans, which can be made in large batches and reheated until hot and bubbly.
Other side options that can help stretch a pulled pork meal to feed a large crowd include a classic potato salad, which is easy to make in large quantities and can be served at room temperature, and a refreshing side of coleslaw. These sides offer a variety of textures and flavors that can help add some excitement to your meal, while also providing a delicious contrast to the smoky flavor of the pork. By serving one or more of these side options alongside your pulled pork, you can create a well-rounded and delicious meal that is sure to feed a large crowd.
What are some side options that are perfect for a pulled pork meal during the holidays?
If you’re hosting a pulled pork meal during the holidays, there are several side options that are perfect for the occasion. One option is a sweet potato casserole, which is a classic holiday side dish that pairs perfectly with the rich, smoky flavor of the pork. Another option is a green bean casserole, which is a creamy, flavorful side dish that is sure to please.
Other side options that are perfect for a pulled pork meal during the holidays include a tangy side of cranberry sauce, which provides a refreshing contrast to the smoky flavor of the pork, and a flavorful side of roasted Brussels sprouts. These sides offer a variety of textures and flavors that can help add some excitement to your holiday meal, while also providing a delicious contrast to the smoky flavor of the pork. By serving one or more of these side options alongside your pulled pork, you can create a memorable and delicious meal that is sure to impress your guests.