Life-Changing Pulled Pork Recipe | Juicy and Flavorful

Discover the best pulled pork recipe that’s life-changing! Tender and juicy pork shoulder slow-cooked or pressure-cooked to perfection, served with a tangy cabbage mixture. Perfect for any gathering!

Versatile Cooking Methods: This recipe is adaptable, allowing you to use either a slow cooker or an instant pot. Both methods ensure tender, juicy pulled pork that's easy to prepare for any occasion.

Life-Changing Pulled Pork Recipe | Juicy and Flavorful

Unique Cabbage Mixture: The accompanying cabbage mixture adds a tangy crunch and vibrant flavor to the pulled pork sandwiches. It's a refreshing twist that elevates the classic BBQ pulled pork to a whole new level.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe? Yes, pork butt or pork loin are good alternatives. Adjust the cooking times accordingly.

2. How can I make the pork less fatty? Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder before cooking and remove any visible fat while shredding.

3. Can I cook the pulled pork on high in the slow cooker? Yes, cook on high for 4-5 hours instead of low for 8 hours.

4. How do I prevent the pork from drying out? Ensure there’s enough liquid in the pot, and cook on low heat. Don’t overcook the pork.

5. Can I use a different type of vinegar for the cabbage mixture? Yes, apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar can be used as substitutes.

6. What is the purpose of liquid smoke in the recipe? Liquid smoke adds a smoky flavor, mimicking the taste of barbecue without a smoker.

7. How do I reheat the pulled pork without drying it out? Reheat in a covered dish with a bit of extra BBQ sauce or broth at a low temperature.

8. Can I freeze the pulled pork? Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

9. What are some good side dishes to serve with pulled pork? Coleslaw, cornbread, baked beans, or potato salad are great accompaniments.

10. Can I make this recipe spicy? Add chili powder or cayenne pepper to the spice mix or use a spicy BBQ sauce.

11. How long can I store the cabbage mixture in the fridge? Store the cabbage mixture for up to 2 days in an airtight container.

12. Is it necessary to soak the cabbage and onions? Soaking softens the cabbage and reduces the sharpness of the onions, making them more palatable.

13. Can I use pre-shredded cabbage for the mixture? Yes, pre-shredded cabbage can save time and works well in this recipe.

14. Can I cook this in a regular pot on the stove? Yes, simmer on low heat for about 3-4 hours, covered, until the pork is tender.

15. What type of BBQ sauce is best for this recipe? Use your favorite BBQ sauce, whether it's sweet, smoky, or spicy, depending on your preference.

Watch video recipe

My Go-To Pulled Pork Recipe

Serving: 8-10 people
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours (slow cooker) or 1 hour (instant pot)
Total Time: 8-9 hours

Ingredients

For the Pulled Pork:

1 large onion, sliced
6 lbs boneless pork shoulder
1 tablespoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1 cup chicken broth
2 cups BBQ sauce, divided
1 tablespoon liquid smoke
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
6 large garlic cloves
2 tablespoons brown sugar

For the Cabbage Mixture:

2 cups cabbage, thinly sliced
1 cup vinegar
4 cups hot water
Pinch of salt
1 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup ketchup
1/2 cup mayo or ranch dressing
Burger buns, for serving

Instructions

Pulled Pork

Prepare the Pork:
- Place the pork shoulder in a pressure cooker or slow cooker.
- Add sliced onions, salt, black pepper, paprika, chicken broth, 1 cup of BBQ sauce, liquid smoke, Worcestershire sauce, garlic cloves, and brown sugar over the pork shoulder.
Cook the Pork:
- For the slow cooker: Cover and set on low for 8 hours.
- For the instant pot: Set to pressure cook on high for 1 hour.
Shred the Pork:
- Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the pot and place it on a large tray.
- Discard any excess fat and shred the pork using two forks.
- Pour the reserved 1 cup of warm BBQ sauce over the shredded pork and mix well before serving.

Cabbage Mixture

Soak the Cabbage:
- Soak the sliced cabbage in hot water with a pinch of salt for 30 minutes to soften.
- Simultaneously, soak the sliced red onion in vinegar for at least 30 minutes.
Combine and Mix:
- After soaking, drain the water from the cabbage and the vinegar from the onion.
- Combine the cabbage and onion in a bowl.
- Add ketchup and either mayo or ranch dressing (depending on your preference).
- Mix until well combined.
- Keep the mixture in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Serve

Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Serve the shredded pork on burger buns topped with the cabbage mixture.
- Enjoy your delicious pulled pork sandwiches!

Additional Notes

Flavor Tip: For deeper flavor, marinate the pork shoulder with the spices and liquid ingredients overnight before cooking.
Serving Suggestions: These pulled pork sandwiches are perfect with coleslaw, pickles, or your favorite side dishes like baked beans or corn on the cob.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 450
Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 150mg
Sodium: 800mg
Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 15g
Protein: 35g

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