Cajun-Style Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Satisfy your cravings with these hearty Cajun-Style Pulled Pork Sandwiches, featuring a succulent pork shoulder slow-cooked to perfection. This recipe swaps out traditional barbecue sauce for a flavorful blend of Cajun spices and diced tomatoes, creating a rich and zesty sauce that complements the tender, shredded meat. Each sandwich is served on a fresh roll and topped with creamy Monterey Jack cheese and your choice of fresh vegetables, making it the perfect option for lunch or a casual gathering with friends and family.
12
Servings
250
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Pork shoulder
3 1/2 lbs (trimmed of fat)
Cajun seasoning
1 tablespoon (none)
Red pepper sauce
1 tablespoon (none)
Diced tomatoes
1 (14 1/2 ounce) can (undrained)
Rolls
12 (none)
Monterey Jack cheese
12 slices (none)
Lettuce leaves
as desired (none)
Tomatoes
as desired (sliced)
Onion
as desired (sliced)
Jalapeno pepper
as desired (sliced)
Instructions
1
Begin by trimming excess fat from the pork shoulder, then place the meat in a 3 to 4-quart crock pot.
2
Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning and red pepper sauce evenly over the pork, ensuring it is well-coated.
3
Pour the undrained can of diced tomatoes over the seasoned pork, adding moisture and flavor.
4
Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on low heat for 8 to 10 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the pork to become tender.
5
Once cooking is complete, carefully remove the pork from the crock pot and place it on a cutting board.
6
Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces, discarding any bones that may be present.
7
Return the shredded pork to the crock pot, stirring well to combine it with the sauce and ensure it's heated through.
8
To assemble the sandwiches, use a slotted spoon to fill each roll with approximately 1/2 cup of the pork mixture.
9
Top each sandwich with a slice of Monterey Jack cheese and your choice of lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and jalapeño slices for added crunch and freshness.
10
Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful Cajun-inspired sandwiches!
Nutrition Information
12.5g
Fat
20g
Carbs
18.75g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What cut of meat is used for Cajun-Style Pulled Pork Sandwiches?
This recipe uses a 3 1/2 pound pork shoulder, which is ideal for slow cooking and shredding.
How long should I cook the pork in the slow cooker?
The pork should be cooked on low heat for 8 to 10 hours to ensure it becomes tender enough to shred.
What size crock pot is recommended for this recipe?
A 3 to 4-quart crock pot is the recommended size for a 3 1/2 pound pork shoulder.
Should I drain the diced tomatoes before adding them?
No, you should use an undrained 14.5-ounce can of diced tomatoes to provide moisture and create the sauce.
How do I shred the pork once it is cooked?
Carefully remove the meat from the crock pot and use two forks to pull the meat apart into bite-sized pieces.
What are the primary seasonings for this pork?
The pork is seasoned with Cajun seasoning and red pepper sauce for a zesty, flavorful profile.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields approximately 12 servings, making it great for gatherings.
What type of cheese is suggested for these sandwiches?
Monterey Jack cheese is recommended for its creamy texture and mild flavor that complements the Cajun spices.
How many calories are in one Cajun-Style Pulled Pork Sandwich?
Each serving contains approximately 250 calories.
Is the fat removed from the pork before cooking?
Yes, the instructions recommend trimming excess fat from the pork shoulder before placing it in the crock pot.
What kind of buns should I use?
Fresh rolls are recommended to hold the hearty pork mixture and toppings.
What fresh vegetable toppings are recommended?
You can add lettuce leaves, sliced tomatoes, sliced onions, and jalapeño slices for extra crunch and freshness.
Does this recipe use traditional BBQ sauce?
No, this recipe swaps traditional BBQ sauce for a blend of Cajun spices and diced tomatoes.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each sandwich provides approximately 18.75 grams of protein.
Is this recipe considered spicy?
It has a zesty kick from the Cajun seasoning, red pepper sauce, and optional jalapeños, but the heat level is adjustable.
Can I cook the pork on high heat instead of low?
While low heat for 8-10 hours is best for tenderness, you could cook it on high for 4-5 hours, though results may vary.
How much fat is in one serving?
There are about 12.5 grams of fat per serving.
Can I use different types of peppers?
Yes, while jalapeños are recommended, you can use milder bell peppers or hotter habaneros depending on your preference.
How much pork mixture goes into each roll?
It is recommended to use about 1/2 cup of the shredded pork mixture per sandwich.
Should I discard the bones?
Yes, any bones found while shredding the pork should be discarded before serving.
What is the total carbohydrate count per sandwich?
Each sandwich contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.
How do I ensure the pork is well-seasoned?
Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning and red pepper sauce evenly over the meat before cooking, and stir well after shredding.
Is this a good recipe for lunch?
Yes, it is tagged as a great lunch option and is perfect for casual gatherings.
Can I make the pork ahead of time?
Yes, the pork can be slow-cooked and shredded in advance, then reheated when you are ready to assemble the sandwiches.
What should I do with the pork after shredding it?
Return the shredded meat to the crock pot and stir it into the cooking juices and tomato sauce to keep it moist.
Why use a slotted spoon when serving?
A slotted spoon helps drain excess liquid so the sandwich rolls don't become too soggy.
Can I use a different cheese than Monterey Jack?
While Monterey Jack is suggested, Pepper Jack would work for extra heat, or Provolone for a milder taste.
Is there a specific brand of Cajun seasoning recommended?
Any standard store-bought Cajun seasoning or a homemade blend will work for this recipe.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 10 main ingredients including the meat, seasonings, rolls, and toppings.
Is this a difficult recipe to make?
No, it is classified as an 'easy recipe' because the slow cooker does most of the work.