Tangy Pineapple Pulled Pork

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 5 hours
🍽 Serves: 8
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If you’ve ever wondered how to make your pulled pork stand out, this Tangy Pineapple Pulled Pork is the answer. Combining the savory depth of pork shoulder with the sweet and tangy kick of fresh pineapple, it's a dish that transforms the ordinary into something unforgettable.

Ingredients for Tangy Pineapple Pulled Pork

The star of this dish is the pork shoulder, a cut that's ideal for slow cooking because of its marbling, which breaks down beautifully over time. Next, we have pineapple, which not only adds sweetness but also tenderizes the pork with its natural enzymes. The BBQ sauce contributes to the dish’s smokiness and depth. Apple cider vinegar and lime juice add the tangy notes that balance the sweetness. A blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper brings warmth and complexity to the dish. Finally, don’t forget the salt and pepper for seasoning.

Tips & Tricks

  • If time allows, marinate the pork overnight in the dry rub for even more robust flavor.
  • Use fresh pineapple for the best texture and taste; canned pineapple can be too soft.
  • For extra smokiness, add a splash of liquid smoke to the sauce mixture.

Serving Suggestions

This pulled pork pairs perfectly with soft brioche buns. For sides, consider classic coleslaw or a fresh corn salad to complement the tangy and sweet flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous, try it over a bed of rice or in a taco shell for a fun twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a slow cooker instead of an oven?
Absolutely! Cook on low for 8 hours or until the pork is tender and can be easily shredded.
What if I don’t have a Dutch oven?
An oven-safe pot with a tight-fitting lid will work just as well.
How can I make it less spicy?
Simply reduce or omit the cayenne pepper to suit your taste.

Tangy Pineapple Pulled Pork Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 300°F. While it heats up, massage the pork shoulder with a generous mix of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Make sure every inch is covered, as this forms the flavor base.

Next, grab your trusty Dutch oven. Heat it over medium-high heat and sear the pork on all sides until it’s beautifully browned. This step locks in the juices and enhances flavor. Once seared, remove the pork and set it aside on a plate.

In the same pot, toss in the pineapple cubes, BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, and lime juice. Stir them together, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pot from searing.

Return the pork to the pot, nestling it into the sauce and pineapple mixture. Cover the pot and slide it into your preheated oven. Now, let the oven work its magic for the next 4-5 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the pork easily falls apart with a fork.

Once tender, shred the pork directly in the pot using two forks. Mix it well with the sauce and pineapples to ensure each bite is infused with flavor. Serve it hot on your choice of buns or alongside your favorite side dishes.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Unique flavor combination that balances sweet, tangy, and savory.
  • Perfect for gatherings or a cozy weekend meal.
  • Simple ingredients with a big flavor payoff.
  • Slow-cooked to tender perfection.

Ingredients

3 lbs pork shoulder
1 large pineapple, peeled and cubed
1 cup BBQ sauce
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp lime juice
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 300°F.
2. Season the pork shoulder with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
3. In a large Dutch oven, sear the pork shoulder on all sides over medium-high heat until browned.
4. Remove the pork and set aside. Add pineapple cubes, BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, and lime juice to the pot, stirring to combine.
5. Return the pork to the pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Cook for 4-5 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily pulled apart with a fork.
7. Shred the pork using two forks, mixing it with the sauce and pineapple in the pot.
8. Serve hot on buns or with your favorite sides.

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