Pulled Pork
Fall-apart tender pork shoulder, slow-cooked for hours in a tangy, smoky spice blend. Shredded and tossed in your favorite BBQ sauce, this is the ultimate filling for sandwiches, tacos, or just piling high on a plate. This recipe leans towards a Memphis-style BBQ, known for its flavorful dry rub and tangy sauce.
For 8 servings
6 steps. 480 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Spice Rub
- b.In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, coarse salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- c.Mix thoroughly until all spices are evenly distributed. This dry rub is the foundation of the flavor.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Season the Pork
- b.Pat the pork shoulder completely dry with paper towels. This helps the rub adhere better.
- c.Generously coat the entire surface of the pork with the spice mixture, pressing it into the meat. Don't be shy; use all of the rub.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Prepare the Slow Cooker
- b.In the bottom of a 6-quart or larger slow cooker, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, chicken broth, and Worcestershire sauce.
- c.Place the seasoned pork shoulder into the slow cooker, fat-side up. The fat will render and baste the meat as it cooks.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Slow Cook to Perfection
- b.Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or on HIGH for 4-5 hours.
- c.The pork is ready when it is exceptionally tender and shreds easily with a fork. For best results, check for an internal temperature of 200-205°F (93-96°C), where the connective tissues have fully broken down.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Shred the Pork
- b.Carefully remove the cooked pork from the slow cooker and place it on a large cutting board or in a large bowl. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
- c.Using two forks, shred the meat. It should pull apart with minimal effort. Discard the bone (if using bone-in) and any large pieces of excess fat.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Sauce and Serve
- b.Skim the excess fat from the surface of the liquid remaining in the slow cooker. Reserve about 1 cup of this flavorful cooking liquid.
- c.Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker. Pour in your favorite BBQ sauce and about 1/2 cup of the reserved cooking liquid. Stir gently to combine.
- d.Set the slow cooker to the 'Warm' setting for at least 20-30 minutes to allow the pork to absorb the sauce and flavors to meld.
- e.Serve hot on toasted buns, with coleslaw, or as a main dish with classic BBQ sides like cornbread and baked beans.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a deeper flavor, sear the pork shoulder on all sides in a hot, oiled skillet before placing it in the slow cooker.
- 2Don't trim too much fat before cooking. The fat cap renders down, adding immense flavor and moisture to the meat.
- 3If you have time, apply the dry rub to the pork the night before, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. This acts as a dry brine, making the meat more flavorful and tender.
- 4Pulled pork freezes exceptionally well. Store in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
- 5For an extra layer of smoky flavor, add 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke to the cooking liquid in the slow cooker.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Carolina Style
Replace the BBQ sauce with a vinegar-based Carolina-style sauce and add 1 tablespoon of red pepper flakes to the cooking liquid for a spicy, tangy kick.
Sweet Hawaiian StyleSweet Hawaiian Style
Add 1 cup of pineapple juice to the slow cooker and mix the shredded pork with a sweet BBQ sauce. Serve on sweet rolls with grilled pineapple slices.
Oven Roasted MethodOven-Roasted Method
If you don't have a slow cooker, place the seasoned pork and liquids in a Dutch oven. Cover and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 5-6 hours, or until fork-tender.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
Pork is a complete protein, providing all the essential amino acids necessary for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle mass, and maintaining overall body function.
Rich in B Vitamins
This dish is a good source of B vitamins, particularly thiamin (B1), niacin (B3), and B6, which are crucial for converting food into energy and supporting brain health.
Provides Essential Minerals
Pulled pork contains important minerals like zinc, which boosts the immune system, and iron, which is vital for creating red blood cells and preventing anemia.
Frequently asked questions
A one-cup serving (about 205g) of this pulled pork contains approximately 480-550 calories, depending on the fat content of the pork shoulder and the sugar content of your chosen BBQ sauce.