Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

This Slow Cooker Pulled Pork recipe delivers tender, flavorful pork with minimal effort. Set it and forget it, allowing the slow cooker to work its magic while you go about your day. Perfect for gatherings, sandwiches, tacos, or simply enjoyed on its own.

Tasting Notes:

Expect succulent pork that’s infused with smoky, savory flavors from the seasonings and cooking process. The meat will be incredibly tender, effortlessly falling apart with each bite.

Ingredients:

• 4-5 pounds pork shoulder (also known as pork butt), trimmed of excess fat
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken or beef broth
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Kitchen Equipment:

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions:

1. Place the sliced onions and minced garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper to create a dry rub.
3. Rub the spice mixture evenly over the pork shoulder, coating all sides.
4. Place the seasoned pork on top of the onions and garlic in the slow cooker.
5. Pour the chicken or beef broth around the pork.
6. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
7. Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
8. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker. Stir in the barbecue sauce, mixing well with the juices.
9. Allow the pork to cook on low for an additional 30 minutes to soak up the flavors.

Pro Tips:

• For added flavor, sear the pork in a hot skillet before placing it in the slow cooker.
• Use your favorite barbecue sauce to customize the flavor of the pulled pork.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, transfer the cooking liquid to a saucepan after removing the pork from the slow cooker. Simmer it over medium heat until it reduces to your desired consistency, then pour it back over the shredded pork.

Variations:

• Add a splash of liquid smoke for an extra smoky flavor.
• Experiment with different spice blends to customize the taste of the pulled pork.
• Serve the pulled pork on sandwich buns with coleslaw for a classic pairing, or use it as a filling for tacos, burritos, or nachos.

FAQs: