Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Posted by Ignatius Thornfield March 6, 2024
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork_1

Background and History

Pulled pork is a classic dish with roots deeply embedded in Southern American cuisine, particularly in regions like the Carolinas. It’s believed that the dish originated from the indigenous cooking methods of Native Americans and evolved over time into the beloved recipe we know today. Traditionally, pork shoulder or pork butt is used for its tender and flavorful meat, which is slow-cooked until it becomes tender enough to “pull” apart with ease.

Ingredients

  • Serves: 6-8
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 8 hours on low heat

Ingredients

  • 3-4 pounds pork shoulder or pork butt
  • 1 onion, thinly sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken or beef broth
  • 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Preparation: Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder or pork butt and season generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and ground cumin.
  • Layering: Place the sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker. Then, add the seasoned pork on top.
  • Liquid Mixture: In a bowl, mix together the chicken or beef broth, barbecue sauce, and brown sugar. Pour this mixture over the pork in the slow cooker.
  • Slow Cooking: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 8 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily falls apart when shredded with a fork.
  • Shredding: Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Discard any excess fat.
  • Sauce: Optionally, you can mix the shredded pork with some of the cooking liquid from the slow cooker to keep it moist and flavorful.
  • Serving: Serve the pulled pork on buns or over rice, topped with additional barbecue sauce if desired. Enjoy your delicious and tender slow cooker pulled pork!

Nutrition Facts

  • Note: Nutrition facts may vary based on serving size and specific ingredients used.
  • Calories: Approximately 300 per serving
  • Total Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Protein: 35g

Notes

  • For added flavor, you can customize the seasoning blend by adding ingredients like chili powder, garlic powder, or dried herbs.
  • Leftover pulled pork can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for longer storage.
  • Serve pulled pork with coleslaw, pickles, or a side of baked beans for a complete Southern-style meal experience.

Allergy Warning

Check the ingredients of your barbecue sauce to ensure it does not contain any allergens such as gluten, soy, or nuts, depending on your dietary restrictions.

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Ignatius Thornfield, the discerning Recipe Connoisseur behind this site, is a culinary aficionado dedicated to transforming pet dining into an art form. With an exquisite taste for flavors and a keen eye for nutritious combinations, Ignatius shares a curated collection of gourmet pet recipes. His site is a sanctuary for pet owners seeking to indulge their furry friends with delectable and health-conscious meals. Ignatius's expertise in the realm of pet cuisine is evident in the sophisticated and thoughtfully crafted content he presents. For those who appreciate the finer culinary experiences for their pets, Ignatius Thornfield's site is a treasure trove of gastronomic delights.