Canadian Pulled Pork Sliders with Maple BBQ Sauce

Introduction

These Canadian Pulled Pork Sliders with Maple BBQ Sauce are juicy, tender, and packed with smoky-sweet flavors. Grilled to perfection on the Arteflame, they achieve a deep, rich flavor with a perfect sear. The center grill grate reaches steakhouse-searing temperatures, locking in juices while the outer flat cooktop ensures even cooking. This recipe brings a hearty, comforting classic to your backyard grill, making it the perfect dish for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 4 lbs pork shoulder
• 1 tbsp kosher salt
• 1 tbsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp mustard powder
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tbsp butter (for grilling)
• 1 cup maple BBQ sauce
• 16 slider buns
• 1/2 cup coleslaw (optional, for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the napkins in the center of the grill.
3. Stack firewood over the napkins.
4. Light the paper and let the fire burn for about 20 minutes until the grill is ready.

Step 2: Prepare the pork shoulder

1. Mix salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, and brown sugar in a bowl.
2. Rub the spice mixture thoroughly over the pork shoulder.
3. Let the seasoned pork rest for at least 10 minutes.

Step 3: Sear the pork on the center grill grate

1. Place the pork shoulder on the center grill grate to sear at 1,000°F.
2. Sear each side for about 3 minutes to lock in the juices.

Step 4: Slow cook on the flat cooktop

1. Move the seared pork onto the outer flat cooktop.
2. Lower the heat by placing it closer to the outer edge.
3. Cook the pork for about 3-4 hours, flipping occasionally.
4. The pork is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 195°F.
5. Remove it from the grill at 180°F as the residual heat will continue cooking the meat.

Step 5: Shred the pork and mix with maple BBQ sauce

1. Use two forks to shred the cooked pork shoulder.
2. Add the maple BBQ sauce and mix to coat evenly.

Step 6: Toast the slider buns

1. Spread butter on the slider buns.
2. Toast them on the outer flat cooktop until golden brown.

Step 7: Assemble the sliders

1. Place a generous amount of pulled pork on each bun.
2. Add coleslaw if desired.
3. Top with the other half of the bun and serve.

Tips

• Let the meat rest for 10 minutes before shredding for maximum juiciness.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper cooking temperature.
• Cook the buns gently to avoid burning on the hot cooktop.

Variations

1. Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper and hot sauce for extra heat.
2. Honey Mustard Twist: Replace maple BBQ sauce with honey mustard BBQ sauce.
3. Apple & Cider Infusion: Marinate the pork in apple cider before grilling.
4. Hickory Smoked: Add hickory wood chips for a smoky depth.
5. Asian Fusion: Mix pulled pork with hoisin sauce and top with pickled vegetables.

Best Pairings

• Sweet potato fries
• Grilled corn on the cob
• Pickled red onions
• Cold craft beer
• Classic coleslaw

Conclusion

These Canadian Pulled Pork Sliders with Maple BBQ Sauce are an explosion of flavors, made to perfection on the Arteflame grill. Searing the pork shoulder on the center grill and slow-cooking it on the flat cooktop delivers unbeatable texture and taste. Whether for backyard parties or family dinners, these sliders bring comfort and joy to the table.