The Ultimate Crockpot Pulled Pork Recipe: Fall-Off-the-Bone Tenderness Every Time
Are you ready to experience the juicy, succulent perfection of crockpot pulled pork? This recipe will guide you through creating a melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece, perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or simply enjoying on its own. Forget tough, dry pork – this method guarantees fall-off-the-bone tenderness every time. Let's dive in!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 3-4 lb pork shoulder (butt): The star of the show! Choose a good quality cut for the best results.
- 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce: Experiment with different flavors!
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar: Adds depth and tanginess.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: For a touch of sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the savory notes.
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika: Adds a smoky aroma and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For a pungent kick.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: For subtle onion flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt: To season the pork.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: For a hint of spice.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Preparing the Pork:
- Pat the pork shoulder dry: This helps the seasoning adhere better.
- Season generously: Rub the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika all over the pork shoulder. Make sure to get into all the crevices!
Slow Cooking to Perfection:
- Place in the crockpot: Put the seasoned pork shoulder in your slow cooker.
- Add the liquid ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour this mixture over the pork.
- Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours: The cooking time will depend on your crockpot and the size of your pork shoulder. The pork is done when it's easily shredded with a fork.
- Shred the pork: Once cooked, remove the pork from the crockpot and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. Then, use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
Adding the BBQ Sauce:
- Mix in the BBQ sauce: Add your favorite BBQ sauce to the shredded pork and stir gently to coat. You can add more or less depending on your preference.
- Serve and enjoy!: Serve your delicious pulled pork on buns, tacos, or alongside your favorite sides.
Tips for Extra Flavor:
- Use a flavorful rub: Experiment with different spice blends to create your own unique flavor profile.
- Add aromatics: Include a chopped onion or some minced garlic to the crockpot for extra flavor.
- Don't overcook: Overcooked pork will be dry. Check for doneness regularly.
- Let it rest: Allowing the pork to rest before shredding helps it retain its juices.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Classic and always a crowd-pleaser.
- Pulled Pork Tacos: A fun and flavorful twist on traditional tacos.
- Pulled Pork Nachos: A great appetizer or snack.
- Pulled Pork Sliders: Perfect for parties or gatherings.
This crockpot pulled pork recipe is incredibly versatile and easy to customize. Feel free to experiment with different BBQ sauces, spices, and sides to create your perfect pulled pork experience. Enjoy!
