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Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

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  • Author: Lina
  • Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes (low) or 4 hours 20 minutes (high)
  • Yield: 6 to 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Discover how to make tender, juicy Slow Cooker Pulled Pork with minimal effort. This easy recipe uses simple ingredients and slow cooking to transform affordable pork shoulder into flavorful, melt-in-your-mouth pulled pork perfect for sandwiches, tacos, salads, or on its own. Ideal for gatherings or comforting meals, it offers robust BBQ flavors with a versatile and crowd-pleasing result.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 3–4 pounds Pork Shoulder
  • 1 medium Onion, sliced
  • 3–4 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup Brown Sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Smoked Paprika
  • 1 tablespoon Chili Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 1/4 cup Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 1/4 cup Water or Broth (optional)
  • 1/2 to 1 cup BBQ Sauce (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pork: Trim any excessive fat from the pork shoulder, then pat it dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and prevents excess grease during cooking.
  2. Make the Dry Rub: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder evenly, coating every inch. This dry rub is key to infusing bold flavors.
  3. Layer the Slow Cooker: Place sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker. These aromatics create a flavorful base and keep the pork moist.
  4. Add the Pork and Liquid: Set the seasoned pork shoulder on top of the onions and garlic. Pour apple cider vinegar around the edges (avoid washing off the rub). Add a splash of water or broth if desired for additional moisture.
  5. Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours, or on high for 4 to 5 hours until the pork is soft enough to shred effortlessly.
  6. Shred the Pork: Remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a large cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat finely. Mix in some of the cooking juices to keep it moist and flavorful.
  7. Add BBQ Sauce (Optional): If using BBQ sauce, stir it into the shredded pork for added tang and sweetness. Warm through before serving.

Notes

  • Choose the right cut: Pork shoulder or pork butt are best due to their fat content and connective tissues.
  • Don’t skip the dry rub as it builds the deep, addictive flavor layers.
  • Resist peeking early to avoid heat loss and extended cooking time.
  • Let the pork rest for 10-15 minutes before shredding to retain juices.
  • Use the cooking juices to keep the shredded pork moist and flavorful.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 to 10 hours (low) or 4 to 5 hours (high)
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4 ounces (about 1/2 cup shredded)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 9 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 27 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg

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Find it online: https://delectablemeal.com/slow-cooker-pulled-pork/