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Pulled Pork Recipe





Ultimate Pulled Pork Recipe

Description

Discover the ultimate pulled pork recipe! Perfect for sandwiches, tacos, and more. Slow-cooked to perfection for tender, flavorful meat. Try it now! Pulled pork is a beloved dish known for its tender, flavorful meat that practically melts in your mouth. This ultimate pulled pork recipe delivers a smoky, savory delight that is perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or simply enjoying on its own. The combination of spices and slow cooking process makes this pulled pork recipe stand out, ensuring a delicious result every time.

Ingredients – Pulled Pork Recipe

  • 4-5 pounds of pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 2 teaspoons black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground mustard
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 cup apple juice
  • 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon liquid smoke (optional)
  • Barbecue sauce (optional, for serving)

Step-by-Step Instructions – Pulled Pork Recipe

Preparing the Pork

  1. Trim and Rinse: Begin by trimming any excess fat from the pork shoulder. Rinse the pork under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
  2. Mix the Dry Rub: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, ground mustard, cumin, and chili powder. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
  3. Season the Pork: Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, ensuring it is evenly coated. Let the pork sit for at least an hour to absorb the flavors. For best results, cover and refrigerate overnight.

Cooking the Pork

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Prepare the Cooking Liquid: In a medium bowl, mix together the apple cider vinegar, apple juice, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and liquid smoke (if using).
  3. Cook the Pork: Place the pork shoulder in a large roasting pan or Dutch oven. Pour the cooking liquid around the pork, being careful not to wash off the spice rub. Cover tightly with a lid or aluminum foil.
  4. Slow Cook: Place the covered pork in the oven and cook for 4-5 hours, or until the meat is very tender and easily pulls apart with a fork. Check occasionally to ensure the liquid has not evaporated completely; add a bit more apple juice if needed.

Shredding and Serving

  1. Shred the Pork: Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes. Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces. Discard any large pieces of fat.
  2. Mix with Cooking Juices: Pour some of the cooking juices over the shredded pork to keep it moist and flavorful. If desired, mix in your favorite barbecue sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Pulled pork is incredibly versatile. Serve it on soft buns with coleslaw for a traditional pulled pork sandwich, or use it as a filling for tacos, nachos, or quesadillas. You can also serve it alongside cornbread and baked beans for a hearty meal.

Tips and Variations – Pulled Pork Recipe

Tips

  • Slow Cooker Method: If you prefer using a slow cooker, follow the same steps for seasoning the pork and making the cooking liquid. Place the pork in the slow cooker, pour the liquid over it, and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.
  • Instant Pot Method: For a quicker version, use an Instant Pot. Follow the seasoning steps, then place the pork and cooking liquid in the Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for about 1 hour, then use the natural release method.
  • Smokier Flavor: If you want a more authentic smoky flavor, you can use a smoker. Smoke the pork shoulder at 225°F (107°C) for about 8-10 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 195-205°F (90-96°C). Use the cooking liquid to baste the pork occasionally.

Variations

  • Spicy Pulled Pork: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño to the dry rub for extra heat.
  • Sweet and Tangy: Mix in a bit of pineapple juice and honey to the cooking liquid for a sweet and tangy twist.
  • Asian-Inspired Pulled Pork: Add soy sauce, ginger, and hoisin sauce to the cooking liquid for an Asian flair. Serve with steamed buns and pickled vegetables.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Preparation Time: 30 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
  • Total Time: 4.5-5.5 hours

Nutritional Information

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 400
  • Total Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugars: 8g
  • Protein: 35g

Historical Background – Pulled Pork Recipe

Pulled pork has a rich history rooted in American barbecue traditions. It is particularly popular in the Southern United States, where barbecue is a celebrated culinary art. The technique of slow-cooking pork to tender perfection dates back to indigenous cooking methods and has been refined over centuries. Today, pulled pork is enjoyed across the country and around the world, often featured at backyard barbecues, family gatherings, and food festivals.

The dish’s popularity grew in the 19th century with the advent of barbecue pits and smokers, which allowed for the slow cooking process essential to achieving tender, flavorful meat. Pulled pork remains a staple in American barbecue culture, celebrated for its versatility and deep, satisfying flavors.