Why You Should Skip Toasting Your Buns For Pulled Pork Sandwiches

When crafting the perfect pulled pork sandwich, the temptation to toast the buns may arise. However, skipping this step can actually enhance your culinary experience. Untoasted buns offer a soft, supple texture that complements the tender, juicy pulled pork, allowing the sandwich to meld together in a harmonious bite. The softness of the buns also acts as a sponge, soaking up the flavorful juices and barbecue sauce, ensuring each mouthful is bursting with taste. Toasting can create a barrier that prevents this delicious absorption, potentially leading to a drier sandwich. Additionally, the contrast between the warm pulled pork and the cool, fresh bun creates a delightful sensory experience. This temperature difference can heighten the flavors, making each bite more dynamic and satisfying. By leaving the buns untoasted, you maintain the sandwich’s integrity and ensure that the focus remains on the rich, slow-cooked pork. This approach allows the meat to take center stage, offering a more authentic and enjoyable experience. Embrace the simplicity and let the natural textures and flavors of the ingredients shine through for a truly memorable pulled pork sandwich.
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How to nail the soft bun pulled pork sandwich

To craft this game-changing sandwich, start by choosing the perfect bun for the role. Brioche hamburger buns and Hawaiian rolls are excellent options, as they are naturally soft yet sturdy enough to hold the other ingredients without becoming a soggy mess (the latter is often used in French toast for this reason). While you won't be toasting these buns, warming them up is definitely the way to go — it not only makes them more tender but can also enhance their flavor. You can achieve this by steaming them, a technique commonly used by hot dog vendors.

Warming the buns this way is quite easy, even without a proper steamer. Just place them on a plate in the microwave with a small cup of water for about 20 seconds, or create a makeshift steamer using a sieve or colander set over a pot of boiling water (just ensure the buns don’t touch the water, or they’ll get soggy). Place the buns inside, cover with a kitchen towel for a couple of minutes, and voilà — your buns are ready for pulled pork duty. Now, all that’s left is to pile on as much meat, slaw, and other delicious toppings as you can handle.

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