Pulled Pork's Cheesy Partners: Finding The Perfect Match

Pulled pork sandwiches are a beloved comfort food in many parts of the world, and for good reason. The tender, juicy, slow-cooked meat combined with a flavorful sauce makes for a mouthwatering handheld meal. While there are many ways to make a pulled pork sandwich, one popular option is to add cheese. But what kind of cheese goes best with pulled pork?

Several types of cheese can complement the smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors of pulled pork. Here are some options to consider:

- Cheddar: A sharp, tangy cheddar can add a nice contrast to the sweetness of the pulled pork.

- Monterey Jack: Mild and melty, Monterey Jack adds creaminess without overpowering the other flavors.

- Pepper Jack: For a spicy kick, pepper jack is a great choice. It adds heat and a creamy texture to the sandwich.

- Provolone: Provolone has a mild and slightly smoky flavor that adds a creamy element to the sandwich without being too overpowering.

- Swiss: Swiss cheese is a popular choice for pulled pork sandwiches due to its distinct flavor and texture. It has a semi-soft texture that melts easily, creating a creamy layer around the pulled pork.

When choosing a cheese for your pulled pork sandwich, consider the other flavors and ingredients you're using. For example, if you're using a strong barbecue sauce, you may want a milder cheese that won't compete with the sauce. Ultimately, the best cheese for a pulled pork sandwich is a matter of personal preference, so feel free to experiment and find the combination that you enjoy the most!

Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, and other cheeses that melt well

Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, and other well-melting cheeses are excellent choices to pair with pulled pork, especially in sandwiches and tacos.

Monterey Jack cheese is a popular choice for nachos with pulled pork, providing a smooth texture and bold jalapeño flavour. It can also be used in pulled pork tacos with avocado, crema, and salsa.

Mozzarella is another cheese that melts well and complements pulled pork. It can be used in a BBQ pork sandwich, where it is smothered in sauce and melted over pulled pork, red onion, lettuce, and BBQ sauce. Mozzarella can also be combined with mature cheddar and pulled pork in a grilled cheese sandwich, resulting in a creamy texture and sharp flavour.

Other cheeses that melt well and can be considered to pair with pulled pork include Fontina, Raclette, Gruyere, Havarti, and Parmesan. These cheeses can be paired with sharper cheeses to create a magical flavour combination in a grilled cheese sandwich.

Cheddar, Swiss, and other sharp cheeses

Cheddar cheese, for example, has a sharp, tangy flavour that pairs well with the smoky, sweet taste of barbecue sauce, a classic pairing for pulled pork sandwiches. It also melts well, creating a creamy texture that complements the tender meat.

Swiss cheese, known for its distinct flavour and semi-soft texture, is another popular choice for pulled pork sandwiches. Its mild, slightly nutty and tangy taste complements the rich, smoky flavours of the pulled pork without overpowering them. The semi-soft texture of Swiss cheese allows it to melt easily, creating a creamy, velvety layer that envelops the meat. Additionally, the characteristic holes in Swiss cheese can trap some of the barbecue sauce or other toppings, ensuring a burst of flavour in each bite.

When using sharp cheddar or Swiss cheese in a pulled pork sandwich, consider the following tips:

• Use a sharp or extra sharp cheddar to stand up to the flavour of the pork.
• For Swiss cheese, look for a mild variety to avoid overpowering the other ingredients.
• Shredded cheese works well for melting and creating a creamy texture.
• Don't overstuff the sandwich to ensure even melting and easy flipping during cooking.
• Pair with complementary toppings such as pickles, jalapeños, or caramelised onions for added flavour and texture.
• Serve with sides like coleslaw, potato salad, or grilled vegetables to round out the meal.

Buns and bread: brioche, sourdough, and more

When it comes to pulled pork sandwiches, you have a variety of bun and bread options to choose from, each offering a unique taste experience. Here are some popular choices:

Brioche Buns

Brioche buns are an excellent choice for pulled pork sandwiches. They are known for their rich, buttery flavour and fluffy texture, similar to croissants but with less effort required in preparation. Brioche is made with eggs, butter, milk, and flour, resulting in a beautiful yellow colour. These buns are slightly sweet and pair well with both sweet and savoury dishes. They are also versatile and can be topped with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or flax seeds for added flavour and crunch.

Sourdough Bread

Sourdough bread is another popular choice for pulled pork sandwiches. It has a unique, tangy flavour and a chewy texture that adds substance to the sandwich. Sourdough is created through a fermentation process, giving it a longer shelf life than some other types of bread. It also has a distinctive sour taste that can complement the sweetness of pulled pork.

Other Options

In addition to brioche and sourdough, there are other bread options to consider:

• Pumpernickel bread: A dense, dark rye bread with a slightly sweet and sour flavour.
• White or whole wheat bread: Classic choices that offer a neutral flavour and soft texture, allowing the pulled pork to shine.

When selecting a bun or bread for your pulled pork sandwich, consider the balance of flavours and textures you desire. Brioche and sourdough are both excellent choices, and you can further customise your sandwich by toasting the bun or adding toppings to enhance the overall taste experience.

BBQ sauce, vinegar, mustard, and other sauces and condiments

BBQ Sauce

Pulled pork is often associated with BBQ sauce, and for good reason. BBQ sauce can add a tangy, sweet, or smoky dimension to your pulled pork. There are various types of BBQ sauce to consider, such as:

• Tomato-based sauces: These are the most common type, featuring a blend of tomatoes, vinegar, and spices, resulting in a tangy and slightly sweet sauce.
• Mustard-based sauces: Originating in South Carolina, these sauces use mustard as the primary ingredient, creating a sharp and tangy flavour profile.
• Vinegar-based sauces: Typical of North Carolina, these sauces are characterised by their thin consistency and sharp, tangy flavour.
• Sweet and sticky sauces: These sauces often contain brown sugar, molasses, or honey, resulting in a thick, sweet glaze that pairs well with the savoury notes of pulled pork.

Vinegar

Vinegar can be used in a few different ways to enhance your pulled pork dish:

• A tangy vinegar-based BBQ sauce can be drizzled over the pulled pork, adding a sharp contrast to the rich meat.
• Alternatively, a mild vinegar dressing can be used to create a refreshing slaw to accompany the pulled pork, providing a crunchy and crisp side dish to balance the richness of the meat.
• For a more subtle approach, a splash of vinegar can be added directly to the pulled pork during the cooking process, helping to tenderise the meat and impart a subtle tangy note.

Mustard

Mustard is a versatile condiment that can be used in several ways to elevate your pulled pork:

• A simple mustard sauce can be drizzled over the pulled pork, offering a sharp and tangy contrast to the savoury meat.
• For a more subtle approach, a light coating of mustard can be applied directly to the pulled pork before cooking, allowing the mustard to form a flavourful crust during the cooking process.
• Alternatively, a creamy mustard-based salad dressing can be used to create a tangy potato salad or coleslaw, providing a refreshing side dish to accompany the pulled pork.

Other Sauces and Condiments

In addition to BBQ sauce, vinegar, and mustard, there are numerous other sauces and condiments that can complement pulled pork:

• Ketchup: A classic condiment that can be used as a dipping sauce or added directly to the pulled pork for a touch of sweetness and tang.
• Ranch dressing: A creamy and tangy dressing that can be drizzled over the pulled pork or used as a dipping sauce for added flavour.
• Hot sauce: A few dashes of hot sauce can be added to the pulled pork to provide a spicy kick and enhance the savoury flavours of the dish.
• Pickles: Pickles, relish, or chutney can be served alongside the pulled pork, offering a refreshing and tangy contrast to the rich meat.

Sides: coleslaw, fries, potato salad, and more

Pulled pork sandwiches are a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of side dishes to enhance the dining experience. Here are some ideas for sides to accompany your pulled pork sandwich:

Coleslaw

A classic side dish for pulled pork, coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch and tangy flavour to the meal. The contrast between the creamy coleslaw and the tender, saucy meat makes for a delightful combination. You can make your own coleslaw by mixing shredded cabbage, carrots, and onions with a light dressing of mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and seasonings.

Fries

Whether you prefer steak-cut fries or classic thin-cut, a serving of crispy, golden fries is always a welcome side dish. For an extra indulgent treat, pair your pulled pork sandwich with a side of loaded fries topped with cheese, bacon, and green onions.

Potato Salad

Creamy, tangy potato salad is another excellent choice to accompany the bold flavours of pulled pork. You can prepare this side dish in a variety of ways, such as by adding hard-boiled eggs, pickles, or fresh herbs to suit your taste.

Baked Beans

A classic barbecue side, baked beans complement the flavours of pulled pork perfectly. Opt for a bubbly pot of baked beans with chunks of bacon for an extra hearty and savoury option.

Cornbread

Warm, slightly sweet cornbread is the ideal accompaniment to saucy, tangy pulled pork sandwiches. It can help soak up any extra sauce and provide a contrasting texture to the tender meat.

Grilled or Roasted Vegetables

For a healthier option, consider serving your pulled pork sandwich with a side of grilled or roasted vegetables. Asparagus, zucchini, bell peppers, or a mix of your favourite veggies can round out the meal and provide additional nutrients.

Other Ideas

Other side dishes that can pair well with pulled pork sandwiches include onion rings, cucumber salad, potato chips, and grilled corn on the cob.

Remember, the sides you choose can enhance the flavours and textures of your pulled pork sandwich, so feel free to experiment and find the combinations that you and your guests enjoy the most!

Frequently asked questions