Slow-Cooked Pulled Pork

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 9 hours
🍽 Serves: 8
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If you’re looking for a dish that's as comforting as a big hug, this Slow-Cooked Pulled Pork is just what you need. Perfectly seasoned and fall-apart tender, it’s a recipe that transforms a seemingly humble cut into something truly special.

Ingredients for Slow-Cooked Pulled Pork

Pork Shoulder: Often called pork butt, this cut is marbled with just the right amount of fat, making it ideal for slow cooking. It turns incredibly tender with time.

Olive Oil: Helps the spice rub adhere to the pork and adds a touch of richness.

Brown Sugar: Adds a hint of sweetness that balances out the savory spices. It also helps to caramelize the exterior slightly.

Smoked Paprika: Infuses the pork with a smoky depth that’s hard to resist.

Salt & Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors.

Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These give a fragrant base note that permeates the meat.

Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a tangy brightness and helps tenderize the pork.

Chicken Broth: Keeps the meat moist and flavorful as it cooks.

BBQ Sauce: The final touch that brings everything together with a sweet and tangy glaze.

Tips & Tricks

  • For a crispier texture, spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil it for a few minutes before adding the BBQ sauce.
  • If you’re short on time, you can crank the slow cooker up to high and cook for about 4-5 hours, though low and slow is best.
  • Use a fat separator to remove any excess fat from the cooking liquid before mixing it back with the pork for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This pulled pork is incredibly versatile. Try it piled high on soft buns with coleslaw for a classic sandwich, or stuff it into tacos with some fresh avocado and lime. It also pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or a simple green salad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of pork?
While pork shoulder is preferred for its fat content and flavor, you can use pork loin if you want a leaner option. Just be aware it might be less tender.
Can I make this in advance?
Absolutely! Pulled pork is often even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the slow cooker.

Slow-Cooked Pulled Pork Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your slow cooker on the low setting. It’s important to have it warm before you place the pork inside.

In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This spice blend creates a lovely crust on the pork.

Rub the pork shoulder with olive oil, ensuring it's evenly coated, then cover it with the spice mixture, pressing it into the meat.

Place the seasoned pork into your preheated slow cooker. Pour the apple cider vinegar and chicken broth around the pork, being careful not to wash off the spices.

Cover and let it cook on low for 8 to 10 hours. This is when the magic happens—your kitchen will smell amazing, and the pork will become so tender it practically falls apart.

Once cooked, carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. This should be easy if it's cooked to perfection.

Mix the shredded pork with BBQ sauce until it's well coated. Serve it hot, and enjoy the fruits of your (very minimal) labor!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Effortless: Let your slow cooker do the hard work while you go about your day.
  • Flavor-Packed: A rich blend of spices makes every bite deliciously unforgettable.
  • Versatile: Perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or even on its own.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

4 lbs pork shoulder
2 tbsp olive oil
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tbsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp salt
1 tbsp black pepper
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 tbsp onion powder
1 cup apple cider vinegar
1 cup chicken broth
2 cups BBQ sauce

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your slow cooker to low setting.
2. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Rub the pork shoulder evenly with olive oil, then coat with the spice mixture.
4. Place the pork shoulder into the slow cooker.
5. Pour the apple cider vinegar and chicken broth around the pork.
6. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
7. Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
8. Mix the shredded pork with BBQ sauce and serve.

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