Are you craving mouthwatering, hickory-smoked pulled pork bursting with flavor? Look no further than the delectable Costco Pulled Pork, proudly brought to you under the Kirkland Signature brand. This succulent delight has undergone a delightful transformation, now free from added nitrates or nitrites, making it even more appealing than ever before.
Key Takeaways
Unveiling the Perfect Heating Instructions
When it comes to heating instructions, Costco has got you covered. They offer two simple methods: microwave and stovetop. Let’s explore the details:
Microwave Heating
- Remove the plastic wrap and cardboard outer sleeve.
- Create a few holes in the plastic bag that encases the pulled pork.
- Keep the bag inside the plastic tray.
- Microwave on High for 7 minutes.
- Allow it to stand for 2 minutes, then pour the contents of the pouch into the tray and serve.
While following these instructions, I discovered that the center of the pulled pork may not be fully heated. No worries though! A quick fix involves mixing the meat with a fork and microwaving it for an extra two minutes on High. Voila! The result is a perfectly heated, delectable dish.
Stovetop Heating
- Remove the plastic wrap and cardboard outer sleeve.
- Bring a pot of water to a boil.
- Place the pouch with the pork into the boiling water.
- Boil the pouch for 12-15 minutes.
- Carefully remove the pouch, pat it dry, and empty the contents into a tray for serving.
This method works well, but for those seeking convenience and speed, the microwave option is the way to go.
Taste Test: A Symphony of Flavors
Straight from the tray, I sampled some of the pulled pork and was blown away by its improved taste compared to Costco’s previous version. The meat is shredded into bite-sized pieces, boasting a perfect balance of smokiness and seasoning, with minimal fat. Its richness is delightful, without any overpowering flavors, making every bite a delightful experience.
Serving Ideas for Culinary Exploration
Apart from the classic pulled pork sandwich, let your creativity run wild with these alternative serving ideas:
- Pulled Pork Tacos
- Meat Lover’s Nacho Platter
- Pizza Topping
- Pork-Filled Quesadillas
- Mix it into Costco’s Mac and Cheese
- Stir it into a pot of chili
- Create BBQ Eggrolls
- Indulge in Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese
The possibilities are endless. Explore the versatility of this Costco masterpiece and savor delightful combinations that will leave you craving more.
Convenience at Your Fingertips
Packaged in a two-pound size, Costco’s pulled pork offers the perfect portion for a satisfying meal. No more dealing with leftovers that can quickly lose their allure. As someone who has prepared pulled pork from scratch, I understand the time and effort it takes. With this precooked delight, you can enjoy the flavors you love without the hassle. It’s a true timesaver.
Nutritional Value and Storage
Each serving of this delectable pulled pork weighs three ounces and boasts the following nutritional information:
- Calories: 160
- Fat: 11g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 780mg
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Protein: 16g
Rest assured, the Kirkland Signature Smoked Pulled Pork is made with quality ingredients, including pork, water, vinegar, salt, black pepper, paprika, red pepper, garlic powder, and “natural flavoring.” However, please note that it cannot be confirmed if this product is gluten-free due to the undisclosed nature of the “natural flavoring.”
When it comes to storage, refrigeration is a must. The pulled pork is stamped with a Use By/Freeze By date, typically lasting around a month from the purchase date. If you decide to freeze it, you can expect the quality to remain intact for at least six months. For frozen portions, ensure thorough heating by either using the defrost setting on your microwave or boiling the package on the stovetop for an additional ten minutes. Lastly, any leftovers should be consumed within four days.
Finding the Culinary Gem and Pricing
To add this culinary gem to your shopping cart, head to the refrigerated coolers near the deli section, where you will also find the fully cooked Costco Pot Roast. The Kirkland Signature Smoked Pulled Pork is item number 1611040. If you can’t locate it in your local warehouse, don’t despair. Simply ask a store associate for assistance in determining if this delectable treat will be stocked soon.
Now, let’s talk affordability. The two-pound package of smoked pulled pork is priced at $13.99, which equates to approximately $7 per pound or $1.31 per three-ounce serving. While it may seem a tad higher than your average pork product, it is still more affordable than what you would pay at a barbecue restaurant for pulled pork of similar quality. Just think of it as a cost-effective way to indulge your taste buds with premium flavors.
Discover the rich flavors, convenience, and versatility of Costco’s Pulled Pork. Elevate your culinary creations and savor the delectable notes that this Kirkland Signature delight offers. Dive into a world of gastronomic pleasures with every bite, all from the comfort of your own home.
