BBQ Pulled Pork Poutine

BBQ Pulled Pork Poutine is a mouthwatering fusion dish that combines the classic Canadian comfort food, poutine, with the rich, savory flavors of Southern-style BBQ pulled pork. Traditional poutine consists of crispy French fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in gravy. This innovative version enhances the dish with tender, slow-cooked pulled pork coated in tangy BBQ sauce, adding an extra layer of flavor and heartiness. Perfect for a satisfying meal or a shared appetizer, BBQ Pulled Pork Poutine is a crowd-pleaser that brings together the best of both culinary worlds.

Ingredients for BBQ Pulled Pork Poutine

To prepare BBQ Pulled Pork Poutine, you’ll need a combination of ingredients for the fries, cheese curds, pulled pork, and BBQ sauce. For the fries, use russet potatoes for their starchy texture, which makes for crispier fries. Alternatively, frozen French fries can be used for convenience. Cheese curds are essential for authentic poutine, providing a squeaky texture and mild flavor. If cheese curds are unavailable, cubed mozzarella or other mild cheeses can be substituted. For the pulled pork, use a pork shoulder or pork butt, which becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked. The pulled pork is coated in a rich BBQ sauce, which can be homemade or store-bought, depending on your preference. Additional seasonings such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika enhance the flavor of the pork.

Preparing BBQ Pulled Pork Poutine

Preparing the Pulled Pork

Start by preparing the pulled pork, which can be done in a slow cooker, oven, or pressure cooker. Season the pork shoulder generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. If using a slow cooker, place the seasoned pork in the cooker, add a small amount of water or broth, and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the meat is tender and easily shredded. For oven cooking, place the pork in a covered roasting pan and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 4-6 hours. If using a pressure cooker, cook on high pressure for about 1.5-2 hours. Once the pork is cooked, shred it using two forks and mix in your preferred BBQ sauce, ensuring the meat is well-coated.

Making the French Fries

While the pork is cooking, prepare the French fries. If using fresh potatoes, peel them if desired, then cut them into uniform strips. Soak the potato strips in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch, which helps achieve crispier fries. Drain and pat the potatoes dry. For frying, heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the potatoes in batches, ensuring they are not overcrowded, until golden brown and crispy, about 3-5 minutes per batch. Remove the fries with a slotted spoon and drain them on paper towels. Season with salt immediately after frying. If baking, preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C), toss the potatoes with oil and salt, and bake until crispy, turning once, about 25-30 minutes.

Assembling the Poutine

To assemble the BBQ Pulled Pork Poutine, place a generous portion of hot French fries on a serving plate or in a shallow dish. Scatter a layer of cheese curds over the fries, allowing them to soften slightly from the heat of the fries. Spoon the BBQ pulled pork over the top, ensuring it is evenly distributed. The heat from the fries and pork will begin to melt the cheese curds, creating a creamy, gooey texture. If desired, drizzle additional BBQ sauce over the top for extra flavor. For a richer dish, warm gravy can also be drizzled over the poutine, blending with the BBQ sauce and cheese for a decadent experience.

Serving Suggestions

BBQ Pulled Pork Poutine is best served hot, straight from the kitchen, to enjoy the perfect blend of crispy fries, melty cheese, and tender pulled pork. This dish is hearty enough to serve as a main course, especially when paired with a fresh side salad or coleslaw, which adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors. For a party or casual gathering, consider serving poutine as a shareable appetizer, allowing guests to enjoy this indulgent treat together. A cold beer or a glass of crisp cider complements the dish well, balancing the richness of the pork and cheese. For a gourmet twist, garnish the poutine with chopped green onions, jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream.

Nutritional Information and Benefits

BBQ Pulled Pork Poutine is a rich and indulgent dish, offering a substantial amount of protein from the pulled pork and calcium from the cheese curds. However, it is also high in calories, fat, and sodium, particularly if prepared with deep-fried fries and generous amounts of BBQ sauce and cheese. To make a lighter version, consider baking the fries instead of frying them, using a leaner cut of pork, or opting for a low-sugar BBQ sauce. Additionally, controlling portion sizes and pairing the dish with a side of vegetables can help balance the meal and make it part of a more balanced diet. While this dish is best enjoyed occasionally as a treat, it can be adapted to suit different dietary needs and preferences.

Storage and Reheating

BBQ Pulled Pork Poutine is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored and reheated. To store, keep the components separate: store the fries, pulled pork, and cheese curds in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat, warm the pulled pork in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave, ensuring it is heated through. Reheat the fries in the oven at 375°F (190°C) to restore their crispiness. Avoid reheating fries in the microwave, as they can become soggy. Assemble the poutine just before serving, layering the fries, cheese curds, and pulled pork, and add any additional toppings as desired.

Safety Tips

When preparing BBQ Pulled Pork Poutine, ensure that the pork is cooked to an internal temperature of at least 195°F (90°C) to ensure it is tender and safe to eat. Use a food thermometer to check the temperature, especially if cooking large cuts of meat. When deep-frying fries, exercise caution with hot oil to prevent burns or accidents. Keep children and pets away from the cooking area and never leave hot oil unattended. Store any leftovers promptly and refrigerate them within two hours to prevent bacterial growth. When reheating, ensure that all components are heated thoroughly, especially the pulled pork, to a safe temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use store-bought pulled pork for this recipe?
   • Yes, store-bought pulled pork can be a convenient option. Just reheat it and mix with your preferred BBQ sauce.
2. What if I can’t find cheese curds?
   • If cheese curds are unavailable, use cubed mozzarella or another mild, melty cheese.
3. Can I make BBQ Pulled Pork Poutine vegetarian?
   • Yes, substitute the pulled pork with BBQ jackfruit or a plant-based meat alternative.
4. How do I make the fries extra crispy?
   • Soak the potatoes in cold water to remove starch, then fry them twice: once at a lower temperature and then at a higher temperature for crispiness.
5. Is it necessary to use gravy in this poutine?
   • While traditional poutine includes gravy, this BBQ version can be made without it, relying on the BBQ sauce for flavor.
6. Can I use different types of cheese?
   • Yes, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack can be used for different flavors.
7. How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
   • Add toppings like sautéed onions, bell peppers, or jalapeños for added nutrition and flavor.
8. Can I use a different type of meat?
   • Yes, pulled chicken or beef can be used as alternatives to pork.
9. What is the best BBQ sauce to use?
   • Use a sauce that complements your taste, whether it’s sweet, tangy, spicy, or smoky.
10. Can BBQ Pulled Pork Poutine be made gluten-free?
    • Yes, use gluten-free BBQ sauce and ensure the fries are cooked in a gluten-free environment.

Conclusion

BBQ Pulled Pork Poutine is a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the iconic elements of Canadian poutine with the rich, savory taste of Southern BBQ pulled pork. This dish is perfect for anyone looking to indulge in a comforting and hearty meal that is both familiar and innovative. With its crispy fries, melty cheese curds, and tender pulled pork, BBQ Pulled Pork Poutine offers a satisfying experience that is sure to please a crowd. Whether served as a main course or shared as a fun appetizer, this dish is a delicious way to enjoy a unique culinary combination. Enjoy this fusion dish and savor the bold flavors and comforting textures it brings to the table.

BBQ Pulled Pork Poutine Recipe

Ingredients

the Pulled Pork:

• 2 pounds pork shoulder or pork butt
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 cup chicken broth

the Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef or chicken broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste

the Poutine:

• 1 bag (1.5 pounds) frozen French fries, cooked according to package instructions
• 1 1/2 cups cheese curds or shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pulled Pork:

• First, season the pork shoulder with salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Place the pork in a slow cooker with the sliced onion, minced garlic, brown sugar, and chicken broth. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shredded.

2. Shred the Pork and Add BBQ Sauce:

• Once the pork is done, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Discard any excess fat. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker, add the BBQ sauce, and stir well to coat the meat. Keep the pork warm while you prepare the other components.

3. Prepare the Gravy:

• In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is golden brown and smooth. Gradually add the broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until the gravy thickens, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Cook the French Fries:

• Meanwhile, cook the French fries according to the package instructions. They should be crispy and hot when ready to assemble the poutine.

5. Assemble the Poutine:

• To assemble, place a generous portion of French fries on each serving plate. Top with the cheese curds or shredded mozzarella, then ladle the hot gravy over the top. Finally, add a heaping amount of the BBQ pulled pork on top of the fries and cheese.

6. Garnish and Serve:

• Garnish the poutine with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately.

This BBQ Pulled Pork Poutine is a delicious twist on the classic Canadian dish, combining crispy fries, melty cheese, savory gravy, and flavorful pulled pork. It’s perfect for a hearty meal or a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Enjoy this indulgent and satisfying dish