Pulled pork is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. This recipe is perfect for a weekend barbecue or an effortless weeknight dinner. All you need to do is follow a few simple steps to make tender, juicy and flavor-packed pulled pork. A slow-cooker works well for this recipe because it allows you to cook the pork low and slow, resulting in a tender and juicy meat that falls apart effortlessly.
Ingredients
– 4 lbs pork shoulder, trimmed of excess fat
– 2 tsp. salt
– 2 tsp. black pepper
– 2 tsp. garlic powder
– 1 tsp. onion powder
– 2 tsp. smoked paprika
– 1 tbsp. brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions
Step 1: Season the Pork
Mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and brown sugar in a small bowl. Rub the seasoning all over the pork shoulder until it is evenly coated.
Step 2: Cook the Pork
Place the pork shoulder in a slow cooker. Add the apple cider vinegar and water to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low heat for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender and falls apart easily.
Step 3: Shred the Pork
Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a large plate. Use two forks to shred the meat, discarding any excess fat or bone.
Step 4: Serve the Pulled Pork
Serve the pulled pork on sandwiches, as a topping for baked potatoes, or as a main dish with your favorite vegetables.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different cut of pork for pulled pork?
The pork shoulder or pork butt is the best cut for pulled pork because it has a lot of fat and connective tissue that break down over the long cooking time. You can also use pork loin or tenderloin, but these cuts have less fat and tend to dry out more easily.
2. What is the best way to store leftover pulled pork?
Store leftover pulled pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze the pulled pork for up to three months.
3. How do I reheat pulled pork?
Reheat pulled pork by placing it in a pan with a little bit of water or broth and heating it over medium heat until it is heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, covered with a damp paper towel, for 1-2 minutes.
4. Can I make pulled pork in the oven?
Yes, you can make pulled pork in the oven. Preheat the oven to 325°F. Season the pork shoulder as directed, place it in a roasting pan, and cover the pan with foil. Bake for 3-4 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender and falls apart easily. Shred the pork and serve it as directed.
5. Do I need to use the apple cider vinegar and water?
Using apple cider vinegar and water helps to keep the pork moist and tender while it cooks. You can also use beer, chicken broth, or apple juice instead if you prefer.
