This Hearty Heritage Slow Cooked Pork is a comforting dish that transforms a simple pork shoulder into a tender, flavorful masterpiece. It's perfect for cozy gatherings or whenever you want a meal that feels like a warm embrace.
The star here is the pork shoulder, which becomes incredibly tender with slow cooking. We start with some olive oil to sear the meat, enhancing its flavor with a nice, caramelized crust. The onion and garlic add aromatic depth, making the dish invitingly savory. The chicken broth helps keep things moist and flavorful, while apple cider vinegar adds a tangy kick to balance the richness. Barbecue sauce and Worcestershire sauce contribute a sweet and smoky dimension, and a touch of brown sugar enhances that sweetness. We season it all with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika for warmth and a hint of smokiness. For those who like a bit of heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper is optional but recommended.
This pork is incredibly versatile. Serve it on a warm bun for a great pulled pork sandwich or in a taco shell with some slaw for a fresh twist. It pairs well with creamy mashed potatoes or a crisp coleslaw. If you want something lighter, try it over a bed of mixed greens.
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. This is where you’ll sear the pork shoulder on all sides. You’re aiming for a nice brown crust—this step locks in the juices and adds flavor. Once browned, move the pork to your slow cooker. Spread the sliced onion and minced garlic over the top of the pork.
Next, in a mixing bowl, combine chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Whisk until everything is well combined, then pour this liquid mixture over the pork in the slow cooker. This mixture will be the base of your sauce, infusing the pork with all those wonderful flavors as it cooks.
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Let the magic happen over the next 8 to 10 hours. You'll know it's done when the pork is so tender that it practically falls apart under gentle pressure. Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and stir to combine it thoroughly with the sauce.
Now, it's ready to serve. If you're feeling fancy, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.