– **Title**: Slow Cooker Texas Pulled Pork
– **Ingredients**:
– 4 lbs pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
– 1 onion, sliced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth (or beef broth)
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 can (about 12 oz) of your favorite barbecue sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
– 8 hamburger buns (for serving)
– Pickles and coleslaw (for serving, optional)
– **Instructions**:
1. Begin by trimming excess fat from the pork shoulder. Cut it into large chunks if necessary to fit in your slow cooker.
2. Place the sliced onion and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker.
3. In a bowl, mix together the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
4. Pour the sauce mixture over the pork in the slow cooker.
5. Cover and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
6. Once the pork is done, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes. Shred the meat using two forks.
7. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker to soak up more of the sauce, stirring to combine.
8. Serve the pulled pork on hamburger buns with pickles and coleslaw, if desired. Enjoy your meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is perfect for slow cooking because it has enough fat to keep the meat juicy. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can also try pork loin, but it may not be as flavorful.
Smoked Paprika: This ingredient gives the pulled pork a nice smoky flavor. If you can’t find it, regular paprika works but will lack the smoky depth. Some people like to add a tiny pinch of cayenne for heat!
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness that balances the spices and acidity from the vinegar. For a refined option, try coconut sugar or even maple syrup for a unique twist.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade version. If you’re opting for a sugar-free or low-carb diet, there are alternatives available. I love a sweet and spicy blend!
Coleslaw: This crunchy topping is a must! If you’re avoiding dairy, opt for a vinegar-based slaw instead of creamy. I also like to add a bit of apple cider vinegar for brightness!
How Do I Make Sure My Pulled Pork Is Tender?
Getting tender pulled pork relies on a few key steps. First, the slow cooking method works wonders. The low heat breaks down the tough fibers in the pork, making it melt-in-your-mouth. Here are my tips:
- Make sure to rub the spice mix well into the pork; this deepens the flavor.
- Pour in the beef broth and vinegar first to keep the meat moist. This aids in tenderizing during cooking.
- Cook on low for a full 8-10 hours; patience is key here. If you’re short on time, the high setting can work, but it’s not quite the same.
- Let the pork rest before shredding. This lets the juices redistribute, making it juicier!
How to Make Slow Cooker Texas Pulled Pork
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pulled Pork:
- 4-5 lbs pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (plus more for serving)
- 6 hamburger buns
- Coleslaw (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 15 minutes of prep time and will need to cook in the slow cooker for 8-10 hours on low or 4-6 hours on high. So, it’s perfect for a day when you can let the slow cooker work its magic while you relax!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spice Rub:
In a small bowl, start by mixing together the smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. This will be your flavorful spice rub—super simple and packed with taste!
2. Season the Pork:
Take your pork shoulder and rub the spice mixture all over it. Make sure to cover all sides well so every bit of that pork gets delicious flavor. Don’t be shy—get in there!
3. Set Up the Slow Cooker:
Pour the beef broth and apple cider vinegar into the slow cooker. Then, gently place the seasoned pork shoulder on top of these liquids to keep it moist and tender during cooking.
4. Add Barbecue Sauce:
Spread the barbecue sauce evenly over the pork shoulder. This top layer will add even more flavor and stickiness as it cooks. Yum!
5. Cook the Pork:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook. Choose low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours, depending on your schedule. Once it’s done, the pork should be tender and shred easily with a fork.
6. Shred the Pork:
After cooking, carefully take the pork shoulder out of the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces. It should come apart beautifully!
7. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Grab your hamburger buns and pile the shredded pulled pork onto each one. Top them off with some crunchy coleslaw and a drizzle of extra barbecue sauce if you like. It’s going to be messy but delicious!
8. Enjoy!
Dig into your slow cooker Texas pulled pork sandwiches! They’re perfect for gatherings, game days, or just a comforting dinner at home. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder (or pork butt) is ideal for its fat content and developing flavor, you can also use pork loin. Just keep in mind that pork loin is leaner, so it may dry out more easily. If using pork loin, consider reducing the cooking time to avoid overcooking.
What If I Don’t Have Beef Broth?
No worries! You can substitute beef broth with chicken broth or vegetable broth in this recipe. Each will still provide enough liquid and flavor for the pulled pork to cook properly. Just ensure it’s a high-quality broth for the best results!
Can I Make This Recipe Without a Slow Cooker?
Yes! You can make pulled pork in the oven. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). After cooking the pork with the rub and liquids in a covered Dutch oven or roasting pan, let it roast for about 4-5 hours, until it’s tender and shreds easily. Just make sure to check the pork every so often to keep it from drying out, adding more liquid if necessary.
How Do I Store Leftover Pulled Pork?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the shredded pulled pork in freezer bags or airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little beef broth to keep it moist!
