Pulled Pork Crock Pot Recipe: A Simple Guide to Tender, Flavorful Meat
Are you ready to experience the ultimate comfort food? This pulled pork crock pot recipe is your ticket to juicy, tender, and flavorful pork that's perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or just enjoying on its own. Forget hours of oven-roasting – this slow cooker method makes it incredibly easy!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 3-4 lb pork shoulder (butt or picnic roast): The star of the show! Choose a good quality cut for the best results.
- 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce: Experiment! Sweet, smoky, spicy – it's your choice.
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar: Adds a tangy depth of flavor.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Balances the acidity and adds sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the savory notes.
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder: A must-have for rich flavor.
- 1 tablespoon onion powder: Adds another layer of savory goodness.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: A touch of smokiness.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: For a little kick.
- 1 teaspoon salt: To season the pork perfectly.
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide to Pulled Pork Perfection
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Prepare the Pork: Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning adhere better. Generously season all sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
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Sear (Optional but Recommended): For extra depth of flavor, sear the pork shoulder on all sides in a large skillet over medium-high heat. This step creates a delicious crust. Don't worry if you skip this – it will still taste amazing!
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Slow Cooker Magic: Place the seasoned pork shoulder in your slow cooker. In a bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour this mixture over the pork.
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Cook Low and Slow: Cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-6 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender and easily shreds. The internal temperature should reach 190-200°F (88-93°C).
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Shred and Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker. Let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before shredding it with two forks. Mix the shredded pork with some of the cooking liquid for extra moisture and flavor.
Tips for the Best Pulled Pork:
- Don't Overcrowd your slow cooker: Ensure there's enough space for the pork to cook evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is crucial for ensuring the pork reaches a safe internal temperature.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different spices and BBQ sauces.
- Make it ahead: Pulled pork tastes even better the next day! It's perfect for meal prepping.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Serve on toasted buns with your favorite coleslaw and pickles.
- Pulled Pork Tacos: A delicious twist on classic tacos.
- Pulled Pork Nachos: Layer the pork over tortilla chips with cheese, jalapenos, and your favorite toppings.
- Pulled Pork Pizza: A unique and flavorful pizza topping.
This pulled pork crock pot recipe is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Enjoy the tender, juicy, and flavorful results of this simple yet impressive dish! Let us know in the comments how yours turned out!
