If you’re a fan of tender, flavorful meat that practically melts in your mouth, slow cooker pulled pork is about to become your new favorite dish. This Southern classic is not only incredibly delicious but also remarkably easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
With just a few minutes of prep work and a trusty slow cooker, you can enjoy a meal that tastes like it took hours of hard work.
Nutritional Value of Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Pulled pork is not only delicious but also a great source of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting immune function, and maintaining muscle mass. A typical serving provides around 20-30 grams of protein, making it an excellent choice for those looking to increase their protein intake.
Also, pulled pork offers a balance of healthy fats, including both monounsaturated and saturated fats, which are necessary for energy and various bodily functions. It’s also rich in B vitamins like B12 and niacin, as well as important minerals like zinc and selenium (ref).
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However, it’s important to be mindful of the calorie and sodium content in pulled pork. A serving can range from 200 to 300 calories, largely due to its fat content. To maintain a balanced meal, pair pulled pork with nutrient-dense sides like steamed vegetables, whole grains, or a fresh salad.
Due to the spice rub and barbecue sauce, sodium levels can be high, so consider using low-sodium broth and sauce options or making your own to control salt intake. By keeping these factors in mind, you can enjoy slow-cooker pulled pork as part of a nutritious and balanced diet.
Perfecting the Pulled Pork: Tips & Tricks
While the recipe itself is straightforward, a few tips can help elevate your pulled pork to the next level. Here are some suggestions to ensure your pulled pork is perfect every time:
- Choose the Right Cut: Opt for a pork shoulder, also known as pork butt, for its balance of fat and meat, which ensures the pulled pork stays juicy and flavorful.
- Let the Meat Rest: After applying the spice rub, allow the pork to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps the meat cook more evenly.
- Sear the Meat First: For an extra layer of flavor, sear the pork shoulder on all sides in a hot skillet before placing it in the slow cooker. This step is optional but can add a nice depth of flavor.
- Skim the Fat: After cooking, skim the fat from the surface of the cooking liquid to avoid a greasy finish. This ensures a cleaner, more balanced flavor.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the pulled pork before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. Sometimes, a little extra salt or a dash of hot sauce can make all the difference.
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store the pulled pork in an airtight container with some of the cooking liquid to keep it moist. It reheats well and retains its flavor.
How to Enjoy Your Pulled Pork
Once your pulled pork is ready, the possibilities are endless. Here are seven of the best ways to enjoy your pulled pork:
- Classic Pulled Pork Sandwich: Serve on a soft bun with coleslaw for a traditional favorite.
- Pulled Pork Tacos: Use soft tortillas and top with fresh salsa, avocado, and a squeeze of lime.
- Pulled Pork Nachos: Layer on top of tortilla chips with melted cheese, jalapeños, and sour cream.
- Pulled Pork Pizza: Spread on a pizza crust with barbecue sauce, red onions, and mozzarella cheese.
- Pulled Pork Stuffed Sweet Potatoes: Fill baked sweet potatoes with pulled pork and top with a dollop of Greek yogurt.
- Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese: Stir into creamy mac and cheese for an indulgent twist.
- Pulled Pork Sliders: Serve on mini buns with pickles and a drizzle of barbecue sauce.
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Ingredients
- 1 4- to 5-pound boneless pork shoulder
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup barbecue sauce plus more for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Pork Shoulder: Trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder. Combine the salt, pepper, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper in a bowl. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, pressing it into the meat.
- Set Up the Slow Cooker: Place the seasoned pork shoulder in the slow cooker. Pour the apple cider vinegar and chicken broth around the pork. Cover and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours, or on high for 4 to 5 hours, until the pork is tender and can be easily shredded with a fork.
- Shred the Pork: Transfer the pork to a large bowl and use two forks to shred the meat, discarding any large pieces of fat. Skim the fat from the surface of the cooking liquid in the slow cooker.
- Mix with Sauce: Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and stir in 1 cup of barbecue sauce. Let it cook on low for an additional 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Serve the pulled pork on buns with extra barbecue sauce on the side. Enjoy!
Disclaimer: Some images in this content were created with the help of AI.
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.