Are you planning a backyard barbecue or hosting a party and wondering what kind of appetizers would pair well with pulled pork? Look no further!
Pulled pork is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways, and the options for appetizers to complement it are endless. From spicy aioli grilled corn to jalapeno cornbread, there are plenty of delicious options to choose from.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best appetizers to serve with pulled pork and give you some ideas to make your next gathering a hit. So fire up the grill and get ready to impress your guests with these mouth-watering appetizers!
What Kind Of Appetizers Go With Pulled Pork?
When it comes to pairing appetizers with pulled pork, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you want to choose appetizers that complement the flavors of the pulled pork. Second, you want to choose appetizers that are easy to make and won’t keep you in the kitchen for too long.
One classic appetizer that goes well with pulled pork is grilled corn with spicy aioli. The sweetness of the corn pairs perfectly with the smoky flavor of the pulled pork, while the spicy aioli adds a kick of heat. If you don’t have access to a grill, you can also cook the corn indoors on a grill plate.
Another great option is jalapeno cornbread. The slight sweetness of the cornbread complements the savory flavor of the pulled pork, while the jalapenos add a bit of heat. For an extra indulgent twist, you can even add some cheese bits to the cornbread.
If you’re looking for something a little more indulgent, try serving pulled pork sliders with coleslaw. The tangy crunch of the coleslaw pairs perfectly with the rich flavor of the pulled pork. You can also serve mini quesadillas or stuffed mushrooms for a savory and satisfying appetizer.
For a lighter option, consider serving a fresh fruit salad or grilled vegetables like zucchini or asparagus. These options will provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavor of the pulled pork.
Spicy Aioli Grilled Corn
If you’re looking for a flavorful and easy-to-make appetizer to pair with pulled pork, look no further than spicy aioli grilled corn. This dish combines the sweetness of grilled corn with the bold flavors of spicy aioli, creating a perfect complement to the smoky flavor of pulled pork.
To make this dish, start by grilling fresh ears of corn until they are lightly charred on all sides. While the corn is grilling, prepare the spicy aioli by mixing together mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, minced garlic, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Adjust the amount of sriracha sauce to your desired level of spiciness.
Once the corn is done grilling, brush each ear with the spicy aioli and sprinkle with chopped cilantro or parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!
This appetizer is not only delicious, but also easy to customize to your liking. You can adjust the level of spiciness in the aioli by adding more or less sriracha sauce, and you can even experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile.
Jalapeno Cornbread
Jalapeno cornbread is a classic Southern dish that pairs perfectly with pulled pork. The sweetness of the cornbread complements the savory flavor of the pork, while the jalapenos add a bit of heat. The great thing about this appetizer is that it’s easy to make and doesn’t require a lot of time in the kitchen.
To make jalapeno cornbread, start with a box of Jiffy corn muffin mix. Add in some chopped jalapenos for heat and bake in mini muffin tins for bite-sized portions. Once the muffins are done, cut off the top and add a spoonful of pulled pork and some slaw on top.
If you want to take this appetizer to the next level, you can even add some cheese bits to the cornbread mix before baking. The melted cheese will add an extra layer of richness to the dish.
When serving jalapeno cornbread with pulled pork, consider pairing it with a Farmhouse Saison beer. The earthy and spicy notes of the beer complement the layered flavors of the dish, while the fruity tartness helps to refresh the palate. Overall, jalapeno cornbread is a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that will be sure to impress your guests at any party or gathering.
Loaded Sweet Potato Skins
Loaded sweet potato skins are a perfect appetizer to serve with pulled pork. These skins are filled with whipped potato filling made light and airy with a little butter and cream and mixed with a little sharp cheddar. The skins are crisped beforehand with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper. Then, they are loaded up with loads of pulled pork, a dollop of sour cream, a touch of BBQ sauce, and green onions. The combination of smoky pulled pork and sweet roasted sweet potatoes is just perfection. These little rounds are a must-make for any football tailgate or game day party. They are not only delightful enough for some really good party food but also tasty enough to make a meal. These snacky get-togethers are what good snacking is all about!
BBQ Chicken Skewers
Another great appetizer option to pair with pulled pork is BBQ chicken skewers. The grilled chicken provides a protein-packed complement to the pulled pork, while the BBQ sauce adds a sweet and tangy flavor. To make the skewers, simply marinate chicken breast chunks in your favorite BBQ sauce for at least an hour before grilling. Thread the chicken onto skewers with some sliced bell peppers and onions for added flavor and color. Grill the skewers until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred, and serve alongside your delicious pulled pork for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Pulled Pork Sliders
Pulled pork sliders are a classic and crowd-pleasing appetizer that pairs perfectly with any gathering or party. To make these sliders, you’ll need pre-made pulled pork, which you can easily find at your local grocery store.
One popular variation of pulled pork sliders is Hawaiian pulled pork sliders. These sliders are made with sweet and spicy flavors, using ingredients like barbecue sauce, pineapple, and buttery Hawaiian buns. To make these sliders, you’ll need to preheat your oven to 225 degrees F and roast the pork for several hours until it reaches an internal temperature of 190 degrees F. Once the pork is cooked, you can pull it into long shreds using two forks and toss it with any residual pan juices and salt to taste.
To assemble the sliders, you’ll need Hawaiian rolls, creamy coleslaw, and your favorite BBQ sauce. Spread the shredded pork across the rolls and top it with drained pineapple, additional BBQ sauce if desired, and slices of provolone cheese. Then, heat up the sliders in the oven until the cheese is melted and the tops are lightly golden brown.
These pulled pork sliders are a delicious and easy appetizer that will surely impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or a game day party, these sliders are sure to be a hit.
Grilled Shrimp And Pineapple Skewers
If you’re looking for a tropical and flavorful appetizer to pair with pulled pork, grilled shrimp and pineapple skewers are a great option. The sweetness of the pineapple complements the smoky flavor of the pulled pork, while the shrimp adds a protein-packed twist.
To make these skewers, start by marinating the shrimp in a mixture of soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, ginger, and lemon juice for at least 15 minutes. While the shrimp is marinating, slice the pineapple, peppers, and onions for the skewers. Alternate between the pineapple, peppers, onion, and shrimp until all are used.
Preheat the grill to medium heat and place the skewers on the grill. Brush them with some of the remaining marinade and close the grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes and then flip the skewers. Cook for another 2-3 minutes or until the shrimp is cooked through and no longer opaque.
Once done, remove from the grill and serve hot as a delicious appetizer that pairs perfectly with pulled pork. Not only are these skewers easy to make, but they also add a touch of elegance to any gathering or meal.