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Savory Pork and Cracklins
Indulge in the rich, mouthwatering flavors of Savory Pork and Cracklins, a quintessential Southern dish that showcases the art of slow-roasting. Picture tender, juicy pork shoulder, perfectly seasoned and roasted to perfection, accompanied by irresistibly crispy cracklins that add a delightful crunch to each bite. This recipe is steeped in tradition, often enjoyed during festive gatherings, where the aroma of savory spices fills the air, bringing family and friends together. Pair it with classic sides like coleslaw or cornbread for a truly satisfying feast that embodies warmth and comfort in every dish.
Ingredients
- Pork shoulder
- 3-4 pounds, bone-in and skin-on
- Vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons
- Cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon
- Paprika
- 1 tablespoon
- Onion powder
- 1 teaspoon
- Garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper
- 1 teaspoon
- Salt
- 1 tablespoon
- Apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup
- Honey
- 1 tablespoon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together cayenne pepper, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt to create a flavorful seasoning blend.
- Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. Rub the seasoning mixture generously all over the pork, ensuring an even coating for maximum flavor.
- In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the pork shoulder to sear it on all sides until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
- Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Roast the pork for 2 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- While the pork is roasting, prepare a simple sauce by combining apple cider vinegar and honey in a small bowl. Stir well and set aside.
- After roasting, remove the pot from the oven and let the pork rest for 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute for a more tender bite.
- Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces, separating the tender meat from the crispy cracklins that form during cooking.
- Serve the shredded pork topped with the crispy cracklins and drizzle with the apple cider vinegar sauce for a tangy contrast.
Tips
- For an added kick, increase the cayenne pepper to 1.5 teaspoons.
- You can also marinate the pork shoulder overnight with the seasoning blend to enhance the flavors even more.
- Consider serving this dish with a side of collard greens or baked beans for a true Southern feast.
Dietary Information
Servings: 6 Dish Type: Main Course Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 2 hours Calories: 420 Fat: 30g Carbs: 5g Protein: 35g Sodium: 950mg Sugar: 1g
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