Easy and Tasty Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Recipe
Slow cooker pulled pork is one of the easiest and most flavorful meals you can make. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a weekend potluck, or even a special occasion. And the best part is, it’s almost completely hands-off!
All you need is a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker, and you’re on your way to a delicious and satisfying meal. I enjoy making these types of meals because it allows me to prepare different dishes on a budget.
My family is trying to eat less meat and more vegetables, but buying pork shoulder in bulk is a great way to save money and reduce food waste. It’s a versatile cut of meat that can be used in many different meals, so I usually buy a large one on sale and have meals for days.
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The Origin of Pulled Pork
Pulled pork is an American barbecue dish that originated in the Southern United States. It is made from slow-smoked pork shoulder, which is then shredded and served with barbecue sauce.
The origins of pulled pork can be traced back to the Native Americans, who cooked meat over open fires. Spanish settlers brought pigs to the Americas, and they quickly became a popular source of food. The settlers combined Native American cooking methods with their own European traditions to create the dish of pulled pork.
In the early days, pulled pork was typically cooked in a pit dug into the ground. The pit was lined with hot coals, and the pork was placed on a grill over the coals. The pork was then smoked for many hours until it was tender and juicy.
Today, pulled pork is often cooked in smokers or slow cookers. It is also becoming increasingly popular to cook pulled pork in the oven.
Pulled pork is a popular dish at barbecues and potlucks. It is also served in many restaurants, especially in the Southern United States. It is also a great option for tacos and pulled pork sandwiches.
Here are some interesting facts about pulled pork:
- Pulled Pork: Pulled pork is one of the most popular meat products, and it is also more nutritious than chicken, containing more B vitamins, iron, and zinc.
- Pulled pork is made from various cuts of pork, but the most common is the pork shoulder. The pork shoulder is a tough cut of meat, but it is also very flavorful. It is slow-cooked over low heat until it is tender and juicy and then shredded into small pieces.
- Pulled pork can be seasoned in many different ways. Some people prefer to season it with salt and pepper, while others add more complex flavors such as barbecue sauce, brown sugar, and paprika. Pulled pork can also be smoked for a richer flavor.
- Pulled pork is a versatile dish that can be eaten in many different ways. It can be served on a bun as a sandwich or mixed with other ingredients to make dishes such as tacos, burritos, and nachos. Pulled pork can also be eaten on its own as a main course.
The Ingredients for the Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Recipe
Boneless, skinless pork shoulder is a versatile cut of meat that is well-suited for slow cooking. It is a tough cut of meat, but it is also very flavorful. It is often used to make pulled pork and other dishes such as pork carnitas and pork stew.
Haitian Epis is a Haitian spice blend that typically contains green onions, chives, thyme, parsley, Scotch bonnet peppers, and salt. It is used to add flavor to a variety of Haitian dishes, including seafood, meat, and vegetables.
Noubess Hot and Spicy Sauce is a hot sauce that is made with a blend of chilies, herbs, spices, and lemon juice. It is a great way to add heat to any dish.
Apple cider vinegar is a type of vinegar that is made from fermented apples. It has a tart, acidic flavor that can be used to add brightness and depth to dishes. It is also a good source of probiotics.
Brown sugar is a type of sugar that is made from molasses. It has a rich caramel flavor that is often used in baking and desserts. It can also be used to add sweetness and complexity to savory dishes.
Smoked paprika is a type of paprika that has been smoked over an oak fire. It has a smoky, sweet flavor that is often used in Spanish cuisine. It can also be used to add flavor to other dishes, such as barbecue and chili.
Garlic powder is a dehydrated form of garlic. It has a pungent, garlicky flavor that is often used in cooking. It is a convenient way to add garlic flavor to dishes without having to mince fresh garlic.
Onion powder is a dehydrated form of onion. It has a mild, oniony flavor that is often used in cooking. It is a convenient way to add onion flavor to dishes without having to dice fresh onions.
Oregano is an herb that has a pungent, slightly minty flavor. It is often used in Italian and Greek cuisine. It can also be used to add flavor to other dishes, such as soups, stews, and roasted vegetables.
Salt is a mineral that is essential for human health. It is often used to enhance the flavor of food. It is important to use salt in moderation, as too much salt can be harmful to health.
Black pepper is a spice that is made from the dried berries of the Piper nigrum plant. It has a pungent, slightly spicy flavor that is often used in cooking. It is a versatile spice that can be used to add flavor to a variety of dishes.
When these ingredients are combined, they create a flavorful and delicious pulled pork dish that is sure to please everyone at the table.
Instructions:
- Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker.
- Whisk together the Haitian Epis, NouBess Hot and Spicy Sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked Paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Pour the sauce over the pork shoulder, turning to coat.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours or until the pork is very tender and easily pulled apart with two forks.
- Shred the pork using two forks. Serve on buns with your favorite toppings, such as coleslaw, pickles, and BBQ sauce. You can also serve the pulled pork with rice, plantains, and steamed or roasted vegetables. There’s no right or wrong way to enjoy pulled pork.
- Reserve the cooking liquid for soup, bean puree, and rice dishes.
Notes and Tips for Pulled Pork Recipe:
- For a richer flavor, sear the pork shoulder on all sides in a skillet over medium-high heat before adding it to the slow cooker.
- If you have leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat the pork in a saucepan over medium heat until heated through.
Serving suggestions for pulled pork recipe:
- Pulled pork sandwiches on buns or rolls
- Pulled pork tacos with tortillas, your favorite toppings, and salsa
- Pulled pork nachos with tortilla chips, cheese, beans, and your favorite toppings
- Pulled pork quesadillas with tortillas, cheese, and your favorite toppings
- Pulled pork bowls with rice or quinoa, vegetables, and your favorite toppings
How to select the right crockpot for a pulled pork recipe
To select the right crockpot for pulled pork, you should consider the following factors:
- Size: Pulled pork is a popular dish to serve a crowd, so you’ll want to choose a large crockpot to accommodate your needs. A 6- to 8-quart crockpot is a good size for cooking a 4- to 5-pound pork shoulder.
- Shape: Crockpots come in various shapes, including oval, round, and rectangular. Oval and rectangular crockpots are typically better for cooking pulled pork, allowing the meat to cook evenly.
- Material: Crockpots are typically made of ceramic, porcelain, or metal. Ceramic and porcelain crockpots are popular choices because they distribute heat evenly and are easy to clean. Metal crockpots are less common but more durable and can be used to cook on the stovetop.
- Features: Some crockpots come with additional features, such as a programmable timer, a sear function, and a warming function. If you plan on using your crockpot for a variety of dishes, you may want to consider a model with these features.
Here are some additional tips for selecting a crockpot for your pulled pork recipe:
- Look for a crockpot with a removable insert. This will make it easier to clean the crockpot and transfer the pulled pork to a serving dish.
- Choose a crockpot with a lid that fits tightly. This will help prevent the liquid from evaporating and keep the meat moist.
- If you plan on using your crockpot to sear the meat before slow cooking, choose a model with a sear function. This will allow you to brown the meat on the outside, which will add flavor and richness to the pulled pork.
Once you have considered all of these factors, you can start shopping for a crockpot. First, start comparing lower-priced to higher priced crockpots. Second, compare features. Third, read the reviews, look for authentic ones, and not paid reviews. Once you have gone through steps 1, 2, and 3, you will better understand your needs and what you can afford. Remember, a higher-priced or lower-priced crockpot does not mean the best.
Here are a few popular models that are well-suited for pulled pork:
- Cuisinart Programmable Slow Cooker
- Instant Pot Duo Plus
- Ninja MultiCooker
- Hamilton Beach Stay or Go Slow Cooker
- Aroma Housewares Digital Slow Cooker
No matter which crockpot you choose, be sure to read the instructions carefully before using it. This will help you to get the most out of your new appliance and to make the best pulled pork recipe.
Frequently asked questions for pulled pork recipe
What cut of meat is best for pulled pork?
The best cut of meat for pulled pork is boneless, skinless pork shoulder. This cut of meat is tough, but it has a lot of fat and connective tissue, which break down and make the meat tender and juicy when cooked slowly.
How long does it take to cook pulled pork?
Pulled pork is typically cooked for 8-10 hours on low heat. However, you can cook it on high heat for 5-6 hours if you don’t have time to cook it for the full 8-10 hours.
How do I know when my pulled pork recipe is done?
Pulled pork is done when it is very tender and easily pulled apart with two forks. You can also use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork. The pork is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
What should I serve with slow cooker pulled pork?
Pulled pork is typically served on buns or rolls with barbecue sauce. However, you can also serve it with other toppings, such as coleslaw, pickles, and onions. Pulled pork can also be served in tacos, nachos, quesadillas, and bowls.
How can I reheat slow cooker pulled pork?
You can reheat pulled pork in a saucepan over medium heat until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave. However, be careful not to overcook the pork, or it will become dry.
Can I freeze slow-cooker pulled pork?
Yes, you can freeze pulled pork. Store the pulled pork in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat the pulled pork, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it in a saucepan over medium heat until heated through.
What are some tips for making a pulled pork recipe?
Here are some tips for making slow-cooker pulled pork recipe:
- Sear the pork shoulder on all sides in a skillet over medium-high heat before adding it to the slow cooker. This will help to seal in the juices and give the pork a richer flavor.
- Add some liquid to the slow cooker, such as water, chicken broth, or apple cider vinegar. This will help to prevent the pork from drying out.
- If you have time, let the pork marinate in a rub or sauce before cooking it. This will help to add flavor to the pork.
- Baste the pork every few hours with cooking liquid or barbecue sauce. This will help to keep the pork moist and flavorful.
- Shred the pork using two forks. This will help to preserve the moisture and flavor of the pork.
I hope these frequently asked questions about slow cooker pulled pork are helpful!
No matter how you choose to serve it, the slow cooker pulled pork recipe is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table!
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