Lunch: Carolina-Style Pulled Pork

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Honey

Health benefits of Carolina-Style Pulled Pork

Honey, often hailed as a superfood, possesses a wealth of nutritional benefits that make it a valuable addition to a balanced diet. With a glycemic index (GI) of 55 for one tablespoon, honey is considered a moderate GI food. This means it does not spike blood sugar levels as high or as quickly as high-GI foods, making it a better choice for maintaining steady energy levels and supporting overall health.

Rich in antioxidants, including phenolic acids and flavonoids, honey offers protective benefits against oxidative stress and inflammation. These antioxidants can help combat the damage caused by free radicals, which are linked to chronic conditions such as heart disease and cancer. Furthermore, the natural sugars in honey can provide a quick energy boost, making it an excellent option for a pre-workout snack or a natural sweetener in beverages and meals.

Honey's benefits extend beyond its nutritional profile. Its antimicrobial properties make it a natural remedy for wounds and burns, promoting healing by providing a moist environment and acting as a barrier to infection. Additionally, honey has been used for centuries to soothe sore throats and coughs, thanks to its ability to coat the throat and reduce irritation.

However, it's important to consume honey in moderation. While it is a healthier alternative to refined sugar, it is still a form of sugar and can contribute to weight gain and other health issues if consumed in large amounts. For individuals with diabetes or those monitoring their blood sugar levels, it's crucial to account for honey's GI and its effects on blood sugar.

Choosing raw, unprocessed honey can also maximize its health benefits. Raw honey is more likely to retain its antioxidants and other beneficial compounds that can be lost during processing. Incorporating honey into your diet can be as simple as adding it to yogurt, drizzling it over oatmeal, or blending it into smoothies. Its natural sweetness and health-promoting properties make honey a superfood worth including in a healthy, balanced diet.

Ingredients

1/4 cup dark brown sugar
2 tablespoons sweet paprika
2 tablespoons chile powder
1 tablespoon dry mustard
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
One 7 1/2-pound bone-in pork shoulder, skin removed and thick layer of fat scored
3/4 cup cider vinegar
1/4 cup yellow mustard
2 tablespoons honey
Toasted buns, for serving

Instructions

In a bowl, mix the brown sugar with the paprika, chile powder, dry mustard and 2 tablespoons each of salt and pepper; rub the spice mixture all over the pork. Refrigerate the pork, covered, overnight.
Light a grill. Set a drip pan in the center of the grill bottom, and surround with a single layer of lit coals. Place the pork fat side up on the grill over the drip pan. Cover and cook for about 8 hours or until an instant-read thermometer inserted in the thickest part registers 175°. Replenish with a layer of lit coals every hour as needed to maintain a steady temperature of 200° to 250° inside the grill. Transfer the pork to a rimmed baking sheet and cover loosely with foil; let rest for 30 minutes.
In a bowl, whisk the vinegar, mustard, honey and 2 teaspoons of pepper. Pull the pork from the bone in large shreds. Add the pork to the mustard sauce and toss. Season with salt and serve with the buns.