Slow Cooker Citrus Pulled Pork

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 8 hours
🍽 Serves: 8
★★★★★
Be the First to Review!

Get ready to meet your new favorite slow-cooked dish! This Slow Cooker Citrus Pulled Pork combines juicy, tender pork with bright citrus flavors, making it perfect for any occasion, whether it's a cozy family dinner or a lively summer BBQ.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Citrus Pulled Pork

The star of the show is the pork shoulder, also known as pork butt. It's the perfect cut for slow cooking due to its marbling, which melts away during cooking, leaving you with juicy, tender meat. The orange and limes bring a refreshing zing with their juice and zest, brightening the dish significantly. The chicken broth keeps everything moist, while the soy sauce adds a savory depth. A touch of brown sugar balances the citrus, while smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder create a rich, smoky flavor profile. Don't skip the olive oil for searing; it helps lock in the flavor and gives the meat a beautiful crust. Finally, onions and garlic add aromatic sweetness to the dish.

Tips & Tricks

  • For a deeper flavor, marinate the pork in the spice rub overnight.
  • Searing is crucial — it seals in the juices and adds a layer of flavor.
  • Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 195°F for perfect tenderness.

Serving Suggestions

This pulled pork is incredibly versatile. Serve it piled high in warm tortillas with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a slice of avocado for a beautiful taco night. Or, go classic with toasted buns and a side of coleslaw for a tangy, crunchy contrast. It also works well over a bed of rice with black beans for a hearty meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of pork?
Yes, pork butt or pork shoulder works best, but you can use pork loin for a leaner option; just adjust cooking times accordingly.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Add a chopped jalapeño or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the citrus mixture for some heat.

Slow Cooker Citrus Pulled Pork Recipe Walkthrough

First, let’s get all that citrus goodness ready. In a small bowl, mix the zest and juice from your orange and limes, along with chicken broth, soy sauce, and brown sugar. This will be our flavorful cooking liquid.

Next, it’s time to spice things up. In another bowl, combine smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Take this spice mix and rub it all over the pork shoulder until it’s completely coated.

Heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, sear the pork on all sides until it’s nice and browned. This step adds a lot of flavor, so don’t skip it! Transfer the seared pork to your slow cooker.

In the same skillet, toss in the sliced onion and minced garlic. Cook them until they’re softened and fragrant, then add them to the slow cooker with the pork.

Pour that citrus mixture you made earlier over the pork and veggies in the slow cooker. Cover it up and let it cook on low for about 8 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the pork is tender and shreds easily with a fork.

Once it’s cooked, remove the pork, shred it using two forks, and return it to the slow cooker. Stir everything to combine, and let it cook for another 30 minutes on low to really soak up all those flavors.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Effortless: Set it and forget it in the slow cooker.
  • Bright & Tangy: Citrus flavors that elevate the pork.
  • Versatile: Perfect for tacos, sandwiches, or salads.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Great for meal prep and leftovers.

Ingredients

4 lbs pork shoulder
1 large orange, juiced and zested
2 limes, juiced and zested
1 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a small bowl, mix orange zest and juice, lime zest and juice, chicken broth, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
2. In another bowl, combine smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the pork shoulder on all sides until browned. Transfer to the slow cooker.
5. In the same skillet, add onion slices and minced garlic, cook until softened. Add to the slow cooker.
6. Pour the citrus mixture over the pork and vegetables in the slow cooker.
7. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the pork is tender and shreds easily with a fork.
8. Once cooked, remove pork from the slow cooker and shred with two forks.
9. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker, stir to combine with the juices, and cook for another 30 minutes on low.

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!