How do you make slow cooker pulled pork?

Choosing the right cut of pork

When it comes to making slow cooker pulled pork, the first step is selecting the right cut of meat. The best cut of pork to use for pulled pork is the pork shoulder or butt. This cut is well marbled with fat, which will keep the meat moist and tender during the long cooking process. You can ask your butcher to remove the skin and excess fat if you prefer a leaner pulled pork.

Seasoning the meat

Before placing the pork in the slow cooker, it’s important to season it well. Create a dry rub mixture with a combination of spices such as paprika, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Massage the dry rub into the pork, covering all sides evenly. This will help to enhance the flavor of the meat as it cooks slowly.

Cooking in the slow cooker

Once the pork is seasoned, it’s time to place it in the slow cooker. Add a small amount of liquid to the bottom of the slow cooker to prevent the meat from drying out. This can be a combination of broth, water, or even apple cider vinegar. The liquid will create steam, ensuring that the pork remains moist as it cooks.

Set the slow cooker to low heat and cook the pork for around 8-10 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily shreds apart. Avoid opening the slow cooker too often as this can prolong the cooking process.

Shredding the pork

Once the pork is fully cooked and tender, carefully transfer it to a cutting board or large bowl. Use two forks to shred the meat, pulling it apart into small, bite-sized pieces. The meat should be incredibly tender and easy to shred. Discard any excess fat or connective tissue that may remain.

If desired, you can also mix in a barbecue sauce or other flavoring at this stage to add extra moisture and flavor to the pulled pork. Simply pour the sauce over the shredded meat and mix thoroughly.

Serving suggestions

Now that your slow cooker pulled pork is ready, it’s time to enjoy it! There are endless ways to serve pulled pork, depending on your preferences. Some popular options include:

• Sandwiches: Serve the pulled pork on a soft bun or roll, topped with coleslaw or pickles for added texture and flavor.
• Tacos: Fill tortillas with the pulled pork, and top with salsa, avocado, and your favorite taco toppings.
• BBQ platter: Serve the pulled pork alongside classic barbecue sides such as baked beans, cornbread, and macaroni and cheese.
• Pizza: Use the pulled pork as a topping for homemade pizza, along with barbecue sauce, cheese, and your favorite veggies.
• Salads: Add the shredded pork to a salad for a protein-packed meal. Pair it with leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy dressing.

Now that you know the steps to make slow cooker pulled pork, you can try it for yourself at home. The slow cooking process allows the meat to become incredibly tender and flavorful, making it the perfect dish for gatherings or a delicious meal at home.