Arkansas BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders on Arteflame Grill

Introduction

Experience the rich, smoky flavors of Arkansas BBQ with these succulent pulled pork sliders. Slow-grilled to perfection on the Arteflame grill, the pork is seared at 1,000F to lock in juices, then slow-cooked on the flat griddle for irresistible tenderness. These sliders are perfect for tailgating or backyard gatherings, bringing the true taste of southern barbecue to your table.

Ingredients

• 1 (5-7 lb) pork shoulder (Boston butt)
• 2 tbsp yellow mustard
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp salt
• 1 tbsp black pepper
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper
• 4 tbsp butter
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 12 slider buns
• Coleslaw (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins inside the Arteflame grill.
3. Stack firewood on top of the napkins and light them.
4. Let the fire develop and preheat the grill for about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Season the pork

1. Rub yellow mustard all over the pork shoulder for adhesion.
2. In a bowl, mix brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
3. Apply the rub generously to all sides of the pork.

Step 3: Sear the pork

1. Place the pork shoulder on the center grill grate and sear all sides at 1,000F for 2-3 minutes each to lock in juices.

Step 4: Slow cook on the griddle

1. Move the seared pork shoulder to the flat cooktop, placing it on a medium heat zone.
2. Cover loosely with parchment paper and cook for about 5-6 hours, turning occasionally.
3. When the internal temperature reaches 200F, remove from the griddle.
4. Let the meat rest for 15-20 minutes before pulling apart with forks.

Step 5: Assemble the sliders

1. Toast the slider buns lightly on the outer edge of the cooktop with butter.
2. Mix pulled pork with BBQ sauce.
3. Pile pork onto slider buns and top with coleslaw if desired.

Tips

• Remove the pork from the grill when it reaches 185F as it will continue to cook while resting.
• For extra smokiness, use hickory or applewood firewood.
• Use the Arteflame warming rack to keep the sliders warm while grilling other foods.

Variations

1. Spicy BBQ Sliders: Add extra cayenne pepper and hot sauce to the BBQ sauce for a kick.
2. Honey Mustard Sliders: Mix honey mustard with the pulled pork for a sweet and tangy twist.
3. Carolina-Style Sliders: Replace BBQ sauce with a vinegar-based Carolina sauce.
4. Tex-Mex Sliders: Add jalapeños and top with melted pepper jack cheese.
5. Hawaiian Sliders: Add grilled pineapple slices for a tropical flavor.

Conclusion

These Arkansas BBQ pulled pork sliders are the ultimate grilled delight, made effortless with the Arteflame grill. The combination of high heat searing and slow cooking on the flat cooktop ensures juicy, flavorful meat every time. Perfect for tailgating, backyard parties, or family gatherings, these sliders will be a crowd favorite.

Best Pairings

• Grilled corn on the cob
• Sweet potato fries
• Classic coleslaw
• Pickles and chips
• A cold glass of sweet tea or craft beer