Description
A savory and smoky pulled pork recipe made effortlessly in a slow cooker. Tender and flavorful, this dish is perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or served with your favorite sides. Ideal for any occasion, from casual dinners to feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 4–5 lbs pork shoulder (or pork butt)
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (for serving)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Pork: Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder, leaving some fat to retain juiciness. Pat dry with paper towels. Rub the pork with a mixture of brown sugar, paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add to the Slow Cooker: Place the seasoned pork into the slow cooker. Add chopped onion and garlic around the meat.
- Add the Liquid: Pour apple cider vinegar over the pork. For a milder option, substitute with chicken broth or water.
- Slow Cook the Pork: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Shred the Pork: Remove the pork from the slow cooker, let it rest for a few minutes, then shred it using two forks. Mix in some cooking juices to keep the pork moist.
- Serve: Serve the pulled pork on sandwiches, in tacos, or with your favorite sides. Drizzle with BBQ sauce if desired.
Notes
- Spicy Option: Add jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat.
- Apple or Pineapple Twist: Add chopped apple or pineapple for a sweet contrast to the savory spices.
- Resting the Meat: Let the shredded pork rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful dish.
- Save the Cooking Liquid: Use the leftover cooking juices to moisten the pork or as a base for soups.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 105mg