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Delicious Pickled Pork Recipe

Sara Collins
The Pickled Pork Recipe is tangy, tender and full of bold flavor. It’s a Southern favorite that’s great with beans, rice or sandwiches.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Southern
Servings 6
Calories 280 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs pork shoulder or pork butt cut into cubes
  • 2 cups white vinegar
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/4 cup salt
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 tbsp black peppercorns
  • 4 garlic cloves crushed
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp mustard seeds
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes optional

Instructions
 

Prepare the Brine

  • In a pot, combine vinegar, water, salt, sugar, garlic, bay leaves and spices. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Simmer for 5 minutes until the salt and sugar dissolve.

Cook the Pork

  • Add pork cubes to the brine. Simmer gently for about 45 minutes until the pork is tender but not falling apart.

Cool and Store

  • Remove from heat and let everything cool to room temperature.

Marinate the Pork

  • Transfer pork and brine to a clean glass jar or airtight container. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 days. The longer it sits, the better the flavor.

Serve and Enjoy

  • Serve pickled pork cold or warmed up. It’s great with beans, rice, or sandwiches.

Notes

  • Use fatty pork for a juicier texture.
  • Always use a non-reactive pot (like stainless steel).
  • Let the pork sit in the brine for at least 3 days.
  • Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
  • Use fresh garlic for strong flavor.
Keyword Delicious Pickled Pork Recipe