Swedish-style Pulled Pork Sandwich

Ingredients

In this Swedish adaptation of the Chinese Rou jia mo, the traditional Chinese spices are replaced with Swedish-inspired flavors. The original dish typically uses a combination of Chinese five-spice powder, soy sauce, and garlic for seasoning, while the Swedish-style Pulled Pork Sandwich incorporates juniper berries, allspice, and thyme to infuse the pork with a distinct Nordic taste. Additionally, the original dish uses a flatbread-like bun, while the Swedish version uses a soft and crusty bun commonly found in Swedish cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Rou jia mo, so you can check it out.

• 2 pounds (900g) pork shoulder 2 pounds (900g) pork shoulder
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground juniper berries 1 teaspoon ground juniper berries
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 cup (240ml) beef broth 1 cup (240ml) beef broth
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 soft and crusty buns 4 soft and crusty buns

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 8g
• Protein: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. 2.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large oven-safe pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened.
3. 3.
   In a small bowl, combine the ground juniper berries, allspice, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder.
4. 4.
   Push the onion and garlic to one side of the pot and place the seasoned pork shoulder in the pot. Sear the pork on all sides until browned.
5. 5.
   Pour the beef broth and apple cider vinegar into the pot. Sprinkle the brown sugar over the pork.
6. 6.
   Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Cook for about 3-4 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
7. 7.
   Remove the pot from the oven and transfer the pork to a cutting board. Shred the pork using two forks.
8. 8.
   Return the shredded pork to the pot and mix it with the cooking juices. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
9. 9.
   Slice the soft and crusty buns in half and lightly toast them.
10. 10.
    Spoon a generous amount of the pulled pork onto the bottom half of each bun. Top with the other half of the bun.
11. 11.
    Serve the Swedish-style Pulled Pork Sandwiches warm and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pork shoulder — Choose a well-marbled cut of pork shoulder for the best flavor and tenderness.
• Juniper berries — Crush the juniper berries before using to release their aromatic oils.
• Soft and crusty buns — Look for buns that have a soft interior and a crusty exterior for the perfect texture.

Tips & Tricks

• For added flavor, marinate the pork shoulder overnight in the spice mixture before cooking.
• If you prefer a sweeter taste, increase the amount of brown sugar in the recipe.
• Serve the Swedish-style Pulled Pork Sandwiches with a side of pickles for a tangy contrast.
• Leftover pulled pork can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and used in various dishes like tacos or salads.
• To save time, you can use a slow cooker instead of the oven for cooking the pork.

Serving advice

Serve the Swedish-style Pulled Pork Sandwiches with a side of coleslaw and a dollop of lingonberry jam for a traditional Swedish touch. Enjoy with a cold glass of Swedish cider or a refreshing elderflower lemonade.

Presentation advice

To present the Swedish-style Pulled Pork Sandwiches, place the bottom half of the bun on a plate and spoon the pulled pork on top. Add a small dollop of lingonberry jam on the side. Place the top half of the bun slightly askew to showcase the delicious filling. Garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme for an elegant touch.