– **Title**: Slow-Cooker Pulled Pork
– **Ingredients**:
– 3 to 4 pounds pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice, sweet or spicy)
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 4 hamburger buns (for serving)
– Coleslaw (optional, for topping)
– **Instructions**:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, ensuring it is evenly coated.
3. Place the sliced onion at the bottom of the slow cooker, then place the seasoned pork shoulder on top of the onions.
4. Pour the chicken broth and BBQ sauce over the pork. You can reserve some BBQ sauce for serving later.
5. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Let it rest for a few minutes before shredding it with two forks.
7. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker, mixing it with the juices to absorb the flavor.
8. Serve the pulled pork on hamburger buns, topped with additional BBQ sauce and coleslaw if desired.
Enjoy your delicious and tender slow-cooked pulled pork!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is perfect for slow cooking because it becomes tender and flavorful. If you can’t find pork shoulder, you could use pork loin, but it might not be as juicy. For a different flavor, try chicken thighs as a lighter option.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite kind for best results. If you prefer a homemade sauce, blend ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and spices. Feel free to swap with a spicy or sugar-free version to match your taste or dietary needs.
Chicken Broth: This adds depth to the sauce. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, vegetable broth works well too. My go-to for flavor is low-sodium broth, so I can control the salt level.
Spices: Smoked paprika and cumin bring a warm, smoky flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika can work, but consider adding a bit of liquid smoke for that smoky taste. You can adjust spices based on your heat preference too!
How Do You Get the Best Shredded Pork Texture?
The key to delicious shredded pork is cooking it low and slow. This method allows the fat to break down, making the meat tender. Follow these steps for optimal results:
- Start by seasoning the pork shoulder generously with salt and pepper. This is crucial for flavor.
- Cook the pork covered in the slow cooker for at least 8 hours on low, or 4 hours on high. Don’t rush this process!
- Once the pork is done, let it rest for 10 minutes before shredding. This helps retain juiciness.
- Use two forks to shred the meat, and make sure to mix it well with the leftover sauce in the cooker for maximum flavor.
Delicious Slow-Cooker Pulled Pork
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pulled Pork:
- 3-4 pounds pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your choice)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Buns for serving (optional)
- Coleslaw for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll spend about 15 minutes prepping the ingredients, and then let the slow cooker do its magic for 8-10 hours on low or 4-6 hours on high. In total, it takes about 8 to 10 hours depending on your cooking method, but the hands-on time is very minimal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork:
Start by trimming any excess fat from the pork shoulder. Then, season it generously with salt and pepper to give it some great flavor.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In your slow cooker, combine the chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and cayenne pepper (if you like a bit of heat). Stir everything together until well mixed.
3. Add the Pork:
Carefully place the seasoned pork shoulder into the slow cooker, making sure it gets submerged in that yummy sauce you just made. It’s important for the pork to soak up all those great flavors!
4. Cook the Pork:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook. If you’re cooking on low, let it go for 8-10 hours. If you need it faster, you can set it to high for 4-6 hours. The pork should be tender and easy to shred when it’s done.
5. Shred the Pork:
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred the pork into pieces. Be sure to discard any large chunks of fat that you encounter.
6. Mix It All Together:
Return the shredded pork back into the slow cooker. Mix it well with the remaining sauce, and let it sit for another 30 minutes. This allows the pork to soak up even more flavor!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to enjoy your delicious pulled pork! Serve it on buns with coleslaw on top if you’d like. It’s a perfect dish for gatherings or a simple family dinner. Enjoy!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder is ideal for its fat content and flavor, you can also use pork loin or even turkey if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary; leaner cuts can dry out more easily, so monitor carefully.
What If I Don’t Have BBQ Sauce on Hand?
No problem! You can make your own barbecue sauce by mixing ketchup, apple cider vinegar, honey or brown sugar, and your favorite spices. Alternatively, a tomato-based sauce mixed with some spices like smoked paprika and Worcestershire can work as a substitute!
Can I Freeze Leftover Pulled Pork?
Yes! Pulled pork freezes incredibly well. Cool the leftovers completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in a microwave.
How to Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you’re looking to amp up the heat, you can add more cayenne pepper or try incorporating diced jalapeños or hot sauce into the sauce mix. Just be sure to taste as you go to achieve your desired spice level!
