Whether you’re a fan of savory barbecue or simply looking for a convenient and fuss-free meal, slow cooker pulled pork is the answer to your cravings. With its mouthwatering aroma and melt-in-your-mouth texture, this Pulled Pork promises to be a taste sensation that will leave you coming back for more. Get ready to elevate your cooking game with this irresistible dish.
Choosing The Right Cut Of Pork For Your Pulled Pork
While some may be tempted to opt for leaner cuts such as pork loin or tenderloin, these cuts are not ideal for this dish. Instead, I recommend using a pork shoulder, also known as a Boston butt or picnic roast.
Pork shoulder is an excellent choice because it has a higher fat content, ensuring the meat stays moist throughout cooking. Additionally, the connective tissue in the shoulder breaks down during cooking and helps to create that classic tender and juicy pulled pork consistency.
It’s important to note that there may be some confusion when purchasing pork shoulder because different regions use different names for this cut of meat. So, if you’re having trouble finding it at your local grocery store or butcher shop, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance.
The Importance Of Seasoning And Spices
The right combination of seasonings can make all the difference between mediocre pulled pork and an unforgettable meal, with friends and family begging for your recipe. For my slow cooker pulled pork, I love using a mixture of spices such as paprika, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, black pepper, salt, and (optionally) brown sugar to create a savory rub that will pack a punch in terms of flavor.
Remember that you don’t want to overdo it with the seasonings – less is often more when it comes to creating balance and not overwhelming your palate. That said, don’t be afraid to experiment with different spice blends or adjust ratios based on your preferences!
Another aspect worth considering when it comes to seasoning is whether you prefer a dry or wet (sauce-based) approach. Some people enjoy their pulled pork coated in BBQ sauce while others prefer just dry rub on theirs-either option can be delicious depending on what flavors fit best with your taste buds!
Slow Cooking Vs Other Cooking Methods
First off, slow cooking tends to be more forgiving than other methods. The low and steady heat means the pork won’t overcook or dry out as easily as it might in the oven or grill. Plus, with the lid on, all those delicious juices stay trapped inside the pot and infuse into the meat.
Another benefit of slow cooking is that it’s hands-off – meaning you can set it and forget it! This makes it perfect for busy days when you don’t have time to stand at the stove or grill for hours.
That being said, there are some downsides to slow cooking as well. One is that you don’t get any crispy edges or char as you might from grilling or roasting in a hot oven – so if you love those textures, slower cooking may not be your favorite method.
Ultimately, slow cooking yields incredibly flavorful and tender pulled pork with little effort – making it my go-to choice every time!
Read more:
Serving Suggestions For Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
- Classic Sandwich: This is probably the most common way to enjoy pulled pork – stuffed between two slices of bread or in a bun with some coleslaw on top for added crunch.
- Tacos or Burritos: Shred up the pork and stuffed them into tacos or burritos for an easy Mexican-style dish! Top with salsa, guacamole, cheese, and other toppings you desire.
- Loaded Baked Potatoes: Scoop out a baked potato and fill it with pulled pork, cheddar cheese, sour cream, green onions, BBQ sauce – all your favorite toppings.
- BBQ Pizza: Spread BBQ sauce over pizza dough before adding mozzarella cheese and pulled pork for a unique spin on pizza!
- Salad Toppings: Add some protein over leafy greens by topping off salads with pulled pork along with sliced avocado or fruits like peaches – this adds extra flavor dimension – especially when topped off with homemade honey mustard dressing
Leftover Ideas and Storage Tips
Here are some ideas to get creative with your leftovers:
- Pulled Pork Quesadillas: Use your leftover meat as a filling for quesadillas, cheese, and favorite veggies.
- BBQ Nachos: Top tortilla chips with the remaining pulled pork and shredded cheese. Broil in the oven until melted and bubbly.
- Loaded Baked Potatoes: Mix your leftover pulled pork with sour cream, chives, and grated cheese, then stuff it inside a baked potato for an easy weeknight dinner.
- Pulled Pork Mac & Cheese: Stir in your leftover pulled pork into homemade macaroni & cheese or boxed mac & cheese for added flavor!
When storing any leftover meat, allow it to cool at room temperature before placing it in an airtight container or freezer bag – this helps prevent excess moisture buildup, which can lead to bacterial growth if stored while still warm (and nobody wants that). Store it in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze it for future use–reheat it when you’re ready to eat again!
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 1/2 pounds pork shoulder
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (for a caramel note)
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon mustard powder (for a spicy kick)
- 1 tablespoon freshly cracked black pepper (coarse for that peppercorn bite)
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika (for a smoky flavor)
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together all the spice ingredients. This will ensure that the brown sugar doesn't clump up.
- Cut the pork shoulder or pork butt into smaller, 5-inch pieces. The smaller the pieces, the quicker the cooking time.
- Coat the pork with the spice rub, making sure to cover the meat evenly. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat as it cooks.
- Place the coated pork pieces in a slow cooker. You may need to do this in two batches if you have a smaller slow cooker.
- Add some chicken stock to the slow cooker. This will prevent the meat from drying out and aid in steaming. You can use white wine, bourbon (such as Jack Daniels), or even cola or root beer for added flavor.
- Set the slow cooker to cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours, depending on the size of the pork pieces. This slow-cooking process will ensure tender and melt-in-your-mouth pulled pork.
- After the cooking time, check the pork for tenderness. The fork should meet no resistance when inserted into the meat.
- Remove the cooked pork from the slow cooker and transfer it to a cutting board.
- Shred the pork into bite-sized pieces using two forks or a potato masher. It should effortlessly fall apart due to the slow cooking process.
- Serve the pulled pork in various ways.
Hey readers! Chip Holland here, and I’m a Manager of this website. My passion for writing about it only matches my passion for BBQ. Follow my blog for mouth-watering recipes, tips, and tricks for the perfect smoke, grill, and BBQ. I’m sure you won’t be disappointed!