Introduction
Experience the rich, smoky flavors of Missouri with these St. Louis Pulled Pork Sandwiches. Cooked on an Arteflame grill, this recipe delivers juicy, tender pulled pork with a perfect sear, coated in tangy BBQ sauce and served on a fresh bun. The Arteflame grill locks in juices with a high-heat sear and then slow-cooks the pork to perfection. Fire up your grill and get ready for the best pulled pork sandwiches you've ever tasted!
Ingredients
- 1 bone-in pork shoulder (8-10 lbs)
- 2 tbsp kosher salt
- 2 tbsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 cup tangy BBQ sauce
- 8 sandwich buns
- Coleslaw (optional, for topping)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill
- Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of the grill.
- Stack firewood over the napkins and light the paper.
- Wait about 20 minutes for the fire to get to the right temperature.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Pork Shoulder
- Mix salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, and cayenne in a bowl.
- Rub the seasoning mix all over the pork shoulder.
- Place the pork shoulder on the center grill grate to sear at 1,000°F for 3-4 minutes per side.
Step 3: Slow Cook on the Flat Cooktop
- Move the seared pork shoulder to the flat cooktop towards the outer edge.
- Cook low and slow, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 195°F (about 6-8 hours).
Step 4: Rest and Shred
- Remove the pork shoulder from the grill when it reaches 180°F, as it will continue cooking off the heat.
- Let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Shred the pork using two forks.
Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches
- Toast the sandwich buns on the flat cooktop with butter.
- Mix the pulled pork with tangy BBQ sauce.
- Pile the pork onto the toasted buns.
- Top with coleslaw if desired and serve hot.
Tips
- Use hickory or oak firewood for an authentic smoky flavor.
- Wrap the pork in butcher paper after 4 hours to keep it moist.
- Adjust heat zones on the Arteflame cooktop by moving the pork closer or farther from the center.
Variations
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Spicy Kick: Add extra cayenne and a spicy BBQ sauce for heat lovers.
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Sweet and Smoky: Use maple wood for smoking and add honey to the rub.
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Kansas City Style: Use a molasses-based BBQ sauce for a richer, sweeter flavor.
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Carolina Style: Replace BBQ sauce with a tangy vinegar-based sauce and add pickles.
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Mexican Inspired: Serve on a tortilla with avocado, cotija cheese, and fresh lime.
Best Pairings
- Classic coleslaw
- Grilled corn on the cob
- Pickles and potato salad
- Sweet tea or cold craft beer
- Smoked baked beans
Conclusion
Missouri St. Louis Pulled Pork Sandwiches are a true backyard grilling masterpiece. Using the Arteflame grill ensures the ultimate sear and juicy, tender meat every time. Whether you enjoy it with classic BBQ sauce or a creative twist, this pulled pork sandwich is sure to satisfy.