Hearty Family Favorite: Slow-Cooker Pulled Pork
Welcome to my culinary blog, where we explore the art of cooking with love and simplicity. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that has become a staple in many homes – Slow-Cooker Pulled Pork. This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, making it perfect for busy weeknights or large gatherings. Let’s dive into this hearty family favorite!
Ingredients
To prepare this delectable slow-cooker pulled pork, you will need the following ingredients:
- 3-4 lb bone-in pork shoulder (also known as Boston butt)
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Garnishes: chopped green onions, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and pickled jalapeños (optional)
Preparation
Step 1: Seasoning the Pork
Start by removing the pork shoulder from its packaging and patting it dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, oregano, chili powder, black pepper, and salt. Generously rub this spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, ensuring every surface is evenly coated. The spices will create a flavorful crust as the meat cooks.
Step 2: Browning the Pork
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned pork shoulder and sear it on all sides until well-browned. This step is crucial as it adds a rich, caramelized flavor to the meat and helps lock in juices during the slow cooking process. Remove the pork from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Preparing the Slow Cooker
Add the apple cider vinegar and water to the slow cooker. Place the seared pork shoulder in the center of the slow cooker, ensuring it is fully submerged in the liquid. If necessary, add more water to cover the pork. Pour any accumulated juices from the skillet over the pork. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 8-9 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
Step 4: Shredding the Pork
Once the pork is tender enough to pull apart easily with a fork, remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces, discarding any excess fat. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and stir in the barbecue sauce if desired. Allow the pork to simmer in the sauce for another 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Serving Suggestions
This slow-cooker pulled pork is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:
- As a topping for sandwiches or sliders, using soft buns or rolls
- In tacos or burritos with your choice of toppings
- Over a bed of rice or noodles for a comforting meal
- Stuffed into baked potatoes for a hearty side dish
For added flavor and texture, garnish with chopped green onions, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and pickled jalapeños. Serve with your favorite condiments such as coleslaw, cornbread, or macaroni salad.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (assuming 8 servings):
| Calories | Total Fat | Carbohydrates | Fiber | Sugars | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 420 kcal | 18g | 12g | 1g | 6g | 34g |
Tips and Variations
Tips:
- For an even richer flavor, use bone-in pork shoulder as the bones add depth to the broth.
- If you prefer a smokier taste, you can add a chipotle pepper or a dash of smoked paprika to the spice mixture.
- To save time, you can skip the browning step and proceed directly to placing the pork in the slow cooker.
Variations:
- Southwest Pulled Pork: Add a can of diced green chilies and a packet of taco seasoning to the spice mixture.
- BBQ Pulled Pork: Increase the amount of barbecue sauce and serve with classic BBQ sides like coleslaw and potato salad.
- Spicy Pulled Pork: Incorporate a tablespoon of hot sauce or red pepper flakes into the spice mixture for an extra kick.
Cooking Time
The total preparation and cooking time for this recipe is approximately 10-12 hours, depending on whether you choose to brown the pork first and the setting of your slow cooker.
Conclusion
This slow-cooker pulled pork is a true family favorite, offering a blend of comfort and convenience. Its rich, savory flavors make it a standout dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, this recipe will undoubtedly become a go-to in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy cooking and sharing this delightful meal with your loved ones!
