Why does pulled pork dry out in the fridge?
Pulled pork can easily dry out in the fridge for a few reasons. First, the low humidity environment of the refrigerator evaporates moisture from the meat over time. Second, pulled pork has a large surface area exposed to air which accelerates moisture loss. Finally, the proteins in the pork undergo changes as they chill that causes the meat fibers to squeeze out moisture.
Should you store pulled pork in the fridge?
Yes, you should refrigerate leftover pulled pork within 2 hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth. The USDA recommends keeping cooked pork for 3-4 days in the fridge. While refrigeration can lead to dryness, proper storage methods can help counteract this.
Tips for keeping pulled pork moist
Here are some tips for maintaining moisture in refrigerated pulled pork:
Store in an airtight container
An airtight container like a food storage container or resealable plastic bag creates a microclimate that retains moisture. Make sure to press out any air before sealing the container.
Add some liquid
Adding a bit of moisture helps replace what evaporates in the fridge. Stir in some of the pork’s juices, barbecue sauce, broth, or even just a splash of water.
Use moist cooking methods
Cooking methods that retain moisture like braising, stewing, and pressure cooking result in more succulent pulled pork than drier cooking methods.
Don’t overcook the pork
Overcooking dries out the meat. Pull the pork once it reaches 195-205°F for juicy shredded meat.
Let it rest before refrigerating
Letting the pulled pork rest for 30-60 mins allows the proteins to reabsorb some of the moisture squeezed out during cooking.
Separate into meal-size portions
Smaller portions mean less surface area exposed to air each time you open the fridge.
Use a paper towel to absorb excess moisture
Excess fat or liquid pooling in the container can make the pork soggy. Place a paper towel on top to absorb excess drippings.
Reheat with liquid
When reheating refrigerated pulled pork, add a bit of liquid like broth or barbecue sauce to restore moisture. Bring the pork up to temperature gently to avoid drying it out.
Should you freeze pulled pork instead?
Freezing is a great option for longer term storage of pulled pork. It stops moisture loss that occurs in the fridge. Vacuum seal or wrap pork tightly in plastic wrap before freezing to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What are the best containers for storing pulled pork?
Here are some good options for pulled pork storage containers:
Plastic food storage containers
Look for BPA-free plastic containers with tight sealing lids. Square containers maximize fridge space.
Zipper freezer bags
Remove excess air and use freezer bags designed for long term storage. Lay bags flat in the fridge.
Aluminum foil
Heavy duty foil can help retain moisture if you wrap the pork tightly in multiple layers.
Vacuum sealed pouches
A vacuum sealer removes oxygen for minimal moisture loss during fridge storage.
Glass storage containers
Glass is nonporous so less moisture can escape compared to plastic or paper. Look for a lid with a tight seal.
How long does pulled pork last in the fridge?
Properly stored, pulled pork will last 3-4 days in the refrigerator according to USDA guidelines. Be sure to check for signs of spoilage before eating, such as an off smell, sliminess, or mold growth. Reheat until steaming hot throughout before consuming.
For maximum freshness and moisture, aim to eat leftover pulled pork within 3 days. Use the freezer for longer storage.
What are the signs of spoiled pulled pork?
Here are indications your refrigerated pulled pork has gone bad:
– Sliminess or stickiness
– Off odors
– Discoloration (green, gray, black)
– Mold growth
– Unpleasant sour taste
– Dry, stiff texture
Trust your senses – if it smells or looks bad, throw it out. Don’t taste meat that looks spoiled.
How to prevent your pulled pork drying out
Here are some overall tips for keeping pulled pork moist:
– Cook low and slow – High heat dries out meat. Use indirect heat at 225-250°F.
– Use bone-in cuts like pork shoulder or pork butt – Bones add moisture during cooking.
– Inject with broth – Injecting pork with chicken or vegetable broth adds extra moisture.
– Spritz with apple juice – Mist the pork with apple juice while cooking to moisten and add flavor.
– Don’t overcook – Stop cooking when pork reaches 195-205°F internal temperature.
– Let it rest before pulling – Resting allows juices to be reabsorbed into meat fibers.
– Add finishing sauce – Mix pork with barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar mop, or juices.
– Keep it warm before serving – Holding pork in a cooler helps reabsorb moisture.
Conclusion
With proper storage techniques like an airtight container, keeping pulled pork moist in the refrigerator is certainly achievable. Allowing the pork to rest before refrigerating, adding some liquid, and avoiding overcooking will also help maintain juiciness. For longer term storage of over 3-4 days, freeze pulled pork instead. Follow these tips for enjoyable pulled pork even after fridge storage.