Southwestern Pulled Pork Sliders Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Coleslaw Sliders with Smoked Pork

This delicious recipe combines smoky pork, creamy coleslaw, and Hawaiian buns for a mouthwatering slider experience. Perfect for any gathering!

Ingredients

Coleslaw:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 chipotle peppers in adobo, minced
• 1 tablespoon adobo sauce from the can
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 3 cups fresh shredded coleslaw mix

Pork:

• 1/3 cup fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons honey or agave syrup
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic
• 1 1/2 pounds shredded fully-cooked smoked pork

Sliders:

• 12 Hawaiian-style slider buns (such as Pepperidge Farm)
• 12 slices smoked gouda cheese

Directions

1. For the coleslaw: In a blender or food processor, combine mayonnaise, chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, salt, and cilantro. Pulse 4 or 5 times, scrape down the sides, and blend until smooth. Toss the mixture with the shredded slaw mix and set aside.
2. Preheat your oven to 400F (200C). Line a sheet pan with foil for easy cleanup.
3. For the pork: In a microwave-safe bowl, mix lime juice, honey, tomato paste, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne, black pepper, coriander, and garlic. Stir to combine. Add the shredded smoked pork and mix thoroughly. Heat on 50% power in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or until warm.
4. Place the open slider buns on the prepared sheet pan. Add a slice of smoked gouda cheese to the bottom half of each bun, trimming any overhanging edges. For extra cheese, add a second layer of gouda.
5. Bake the buns in the preheated oven for 3-5 minutes until the cheese begins to melt.
6. Once the cheese has melted, remove the buns from the oven. Place 2 tablespoons of the pork mixture on top of the melted cheese.
7. Add a generous portion of coleslaw to each slider, then top with the other half of the bun.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition Information	Per Serving
Calories	453
Total Fat	25g (32% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat	9g (46% Daily Value)
Cholesterol	86mg (29% Daily Value)
Sodium	620mg (27% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate	30g (11% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber	2g (7% Daily Value)
Total Sugars	8g
Protein	27g (55% Daily Value)
Vitamin C	11mg (13% Daily Value)
Calcium	309mg (24% Daily Value)
Iron	3mg (16% Daily Value)
Potassium	386mg (8% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

History and Origins of Southwestern Pulled Pork Sliders

Southwestern Pulled Pork Sliders are a modern twist on traditional pulled pork sandwiches, inspired by the bold flavors of the American Southwest. Pulled pork itself has roots in Southern barbecue traditions, where slow-cooked pork was a staple at family gatherings and festivals. The Southwestern variation emerged as chefs began incorporating regional spices like smoked paprika, cumin, and chipotle peppers to add heat and depth. Hawaiian-style slider buns were later adopted to balance the spiciness with a touch of sweetness, making the dish more playful and accessible for casual dining and appetizer menus.

Regional Characteristics

This dish reflects the vibrant and diverse culinary influences of the Southwestern United States, including Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona. Southwestern cuisine is characterized by the use of chili peppers, smoked spices, lime, and fresh herbs, all of which are present in these sliders. The combination of smoky pork, tangy lime, and zesty chipotle slaw highlights the fusion of Native American, Mexican, and Southern barbecue traditions unique to this region.

Differences from Similar Dishes

While traditional pulled pork sandwiches typically feature a plain barbecue sauce and coleslaw on a regular bun, Southwestern Pulled Pork Sliders stand out with their complex layering of flavors. The addition of smoked Gouda adds a creamy, smoky contrast, while the chipotle-lime slaw provides both heat and freshness. Unlike Carolina or Memphis-style pulled pork, which focuses on vinegar-based or tomato-based sauces, these sliders emphasize spice and tang in combination with sweet Hawaiian buns, creating a flavor profile distinctly their own.

Where They Are Typically Served

These sliders are often featured at casual gatherings, game-day parties, and modern American bistros. Their small, handheld size makes them ideal for appetizers, buffets, or tapas-style meals. Restaurants that specialize in Southwestern cuisine or contemporary American fare frequently include them on menus, especially as a shareable dish for groups. Additionally, they are a popular choice for backyard barbecues, holiday parties, and food trucks that offer gourmet twists on classic comfort foods.

Interesting Facts

• The use of Hawaiian-style slider buns in Southwestern Pulled Pork Sliders is a creative adaptation that combines sweet and savory flavors in a single bite.
• Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce are a key ingredient, providing smoky heat that sets this dish apart from other pulled pork variations.
• Layering smoked Gouda cheese beneath the pork ensures it melts perfectly while adding richness without overpowering the other flavors.
• Sliders have become a culinary trend due to their versatility, allowing chefs to experiment with regional ingredients and global flavors in miniature sandwich form.
• These sliders can be easily adapted for leftover pork, making them a practical yet impressive option for home cooks and professional chefs alike.

FAQ about Southwestern Pulled Pork Sliders Recipe

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