Pulled Pork Recipe Recipe

Pulled Pork Recipe

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Pulled Pork Recipe

Tender and Flavorful Slow-Cooked Classic

Enjoy the rich, smoky, and tender flavors of this Pulled Pork recipe. Made with wholesome ingredients and slow-cooked to perfection, this dish is packed with protein and perfect for meal prep, sandwiches, bowls, or lettuce wraps. Let's get cooking!

PREP TIME: 15 minutes
COOK TIME: 6-8 hours
COURSE: Main Course
CUISINE: American
SERVINGS: 6 servings

EQUIPMENT:

  • Slow cooker or Dutch oven
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Measuring spoons
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Tongs
  • Two forks for shredding

INGREDIENTS:

  • 3 pounds pork shoulder (trimmed of excess fat)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 cup natural barbecue sauce (no added sugar preferred)

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Prepare the Pork

  1. Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels.
  2. In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and chili powder.
  3. Rub the spice mixture evenly over the entire pork shoulder.

Step 2: Sear the Meat

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Sear the pork on all sides for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. This helps lock in flavor.
  3. Transfer the pork to the slow cooker or Dutch oven.

Step 3: Slow Cook

  1. Pour chicken broth and apple cider vinegar around (not over) the pork.
  2. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours (or 3-4 hours on high) until the pork is fork-tender.
  3. If using a Dutch oven, cook covered at 300°F (150°C) for about 3-4 hours.

Step 4: Shred and Finish

  1. Remove the pork from the cooker and place it on a cutting board.
  2. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Return the shredded pork to the cooker and stir in the barbecue sauce.
  4. Let it cook for an additional 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors.

TIPS:

  • Serve on whole-grain buns, over brown rice, or in lettuce wraps for a lighter option.
  • For extra smokiness, add a pinch of chipotle powder to the spice mix.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for meal prep.

KEYWORD: Pulled Pork Recipe, Slow Cooker Pork, Healthy Pulled Pork

Author

  • Hello, I'm Brandt, a Certified Grillmaster, chef, and culinary enthusiast with a lifelong passion for creating exceptional flavors through grilling and cooking. Over the past 30 years, I've honed my barbecue skills on a wide range of smokers, grills, and culinary techniques. I've served as a BBQ judge and earned awards and recognition for my achievements in the world of barbecue.

    I'm also an author, writer, and contributor to sites such as Fine Cooking, The Food Chronicles, My Tasty Dish, and The Cooking. I'm dedicated to sharing my expertise and guiding you on your culinary journey.

    Join me as we dive deep into the art of grilling, where I'll be unveiling my time-tested tips and secret recipes that bring people together, one sizzle at a time!

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Last updated: February 16, 2026