Bourbon BBQ Pulled Pork with Sweet Potato Mash

This classic American dish originated in the Southern United States, featuring slow-cooked pork shoulder in a rich bourbon BBQ sauce, served alongside a creamy sweet potato mash. The combination of tender pork and velvety mashed potatoes creates a comforting, satisfying meal. The bourbon BBQ sauce adds a depth of flavor and a hint of smokiness.

🛒 Ingredients

• 2 lbs Pork shoulder
• 1/4 cup Bourbon
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 2 medium Sweet potatoes
• 2 tbsp Unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp Brown sugar
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1/2 tsp Black pepper
• 1 medium Onion
• 3 cloves Garlic
• 1 tsp Chili powder
• 1 tsp Cumin
• 1/4 tsp Cayenne pepper
• 4 slices Bacon

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1

   Step 1: Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). In a small bowl, mix together bourbon, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Set aside.

2. 2

   Step 2: In a large Dutch oven, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside.

3. 3

   Step 3: Add onion and garlic to the Dutch oven and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

4. 4

   Step 4: Add pork shoulder to the Dutch oven and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.

5. 5

   Step 5: Pour the bourbon mixture over the pork shoulder and bring to a simmer.

6. 6

   Step 6: Cover the Dutch oven and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 60-90 minutes, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.

7. 7

   Step 7: While the pork is braising, boil the sweet potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 10-12 minutes.

8. 8

   Step 8: Drain the sweet potatoes and mash with butter, salt, and pepper until smooth.

9. 9

   Step 9: Shred the cooked pork with two forks and add to the bourbon sauce. Simmer over low heat until heated through.

10. 10

    Step 10: Serve the pulled pork on a bun with sweet potato mash and additional bourbon BBQ sauce, if desired.

💡 Pro Tips

To avoid overcooking the pork, use a meat thermometer to check for internal temperature (145°F/63°C). For a more intense bourbon flavor, let the sauce simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes. When serving, sprinkle with crispy bacon and chopped fresh herbs, if desired.

📊 Nutrition per Serving