Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Best Cheeses To Compliment The Classic

There are many types of cheese that can be used in pulled pork sandwiches. Some popular options include cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, and gouda. The choice of cheese can depend on personal preference, as well as the other ingredients used in the sandwich. For example, a sharper cheese might be chosen to offset the sweetness of the dough, or a lighter cheese might be preferred if the pulled pork is smoked. Ultimately, the only essential topping for a pulled pork sandwich is bread, and from there, creators can experiment with different cheeses and other toppings to find their preferred combination.

Mozzarella, fontina, Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or cheddar cheese

For a classic take on the sandwich, opt for a sharp cheddar that can stand up to the flavour of the pork. A mild cheddar also works well, especially when paired with other ingredients like barbecue sauce or pickles. If you're feeling adventurous, try using a younger or mild cheddar, as it melts better and will give your sandwich that perfect, gooey texture.

Fontina, Gruyere, and Monterey Jack are also excellent melting cheeses that will give your sandwich a delicious, creamy texture. These cheeses tend to be lighter in flavour, so they won't overpower the other ingredients.

Mozzarella is another popular choice for pulled pork sandwiches. Its stringy, gooey texture and delicate flavour make it a perfect match for the juicy, tender pork.

No matter which cheese you choose, the key to a great pulled pork sandwich is to use a cheese that melts well and complements the other flavours in the sandwich. So feel free to experiment with different cheeses and find the perfect combination that suits your taste!

BBQ sauce

While cheese might not be the first thing you think of to put on a pulled pork sandwich, it is a totally acceptable option. Rich, creamy cheeses work well, and you can use whatever kind you like. A sharp cheddar is a popular choice, as it holds up to the pork flavour, but you could also use a lighter cheese like smoked gouda, jack cheese, or mozzarella. These cheeses add a stringy, gooey, delicious texture and flavour.

If you're using BBQ sauce, you might want to consider a sharper cheddar to offset the sweetness of the sauce. You could also try smoked gouda, or a lighter cheese like jack cheese or mozzarella, as long as you had something tangy in the sandwich, like brown mustard or a vinegar-based BBQ sauce.

When making a pulled pork grilled cheese sandwich, you'll want to use a good melting cheese. Other options include fontina, gruyere, or Monterey Jack.

Brioche, sourdough, pumpernickel, white, or whole wheat bread

When it comes to bread, there are several options that pair well with pulled pork sandwiches. Brioche, a French-style bread that is rich in butter and eggs, is a delicious choice for pulled pork sandwiches. Toasting the brioche with a little butter and adding some BBQ sauce and pickles will create a flavourful combination that complements the rich pork.

Sourdough bread is another excellent option, especially for those on the West Coast. It has a tangy and fresh taste, and its dense texture holds up well against the tender and juicy pulled pork. Sourdough can also be used to make a unique take on the classic Ruben sandwich by substituting rye bread.

Pumpernickel bread, a traditional European bread with a dense and nutritious whole-grain texture, also pairs well with pulled pork. Its intense flavour works harmoniously with a variety of toppings, including cream cheese, cucumber, smoked salmon, and freshly sliced meats and cheeses.

For a more classic option, white or whole wheat bread are always reliable choices for pulled pork sandwiches. They provide a neutral flavour that lets the pulled pork shine, while still offering a satisfying texture.

Coleslaw

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon onion powder or 1 tablespoon finely grated onion
• 2 teaspoons celery seeds
• 1 16-ounce bag of coleslaw mix (plain cabbage or tri-colour deli style)

Instructions:

• In a large bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, sugar, salt, onion powder, and celery seeds.
• Add the shredded cabbage and toss or stir until well coated.
• Refrigerate for an hour before serving and up to 2 days. (Toss again right before serving.)

This coleslaw can be made in advance, but it will release more liquid the longer it is stored in the refrigerator. You will need to drain off some of the excess liquid before tossing again and serving.

Pickles

Some people prefer to add pickles to their pulled pork sandwiches for a cold, crunchy texture, while others like to add them to the slow cooker along with the meat. However, the general consensus is that pickles are best served on the side, as they can be a divisive topping.

If you want to incorporate the flavour of pickles into your pulled pork without the crunch, you can add some pickle juice to the slow cooker. This will add a tangy, salty taste to the meat without altering the texture.

For an extra special treat, you can make your own pickles at home. All you need are cucumbers, vinegar, sugar, salt, mustard seed, bay leaves, garlic cloves, and red pepper flakes. This way, you can customise the flavour and level of spiciness to your liking.

Whether you prefer your pickles sweet, sour, spicy, or fried, they can be a delicious addition to a pulled pork sandwich. So, the next time you're enjoying this classic dish, don't be afraid to experiment with different types of pickles to find your perfect pairing.

Frequently asked questions