Description

Craving a smoky, tender, and saucy dish that’s perfect for gatherings or easy dinners? Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork is your answer! This crowd-pleasing recipe transforms pork shoulder into melt-in-your-mouth shreds, coated in tangy BBQ sauce with a hint of spice

Ingredients

Pork Shoulder (3 lbs):
- Why it’s important: A fatty, flavorful cut that becomes tender and juicy when slow-cooked.
- Substitutions: Pork butt (similar cut), or pork loin for leaner (may be less juicy). For vegetarian, try jackfruit (cook 4–6 hours on low).
BBQ Sauce (1 cup, your favorite brand):
- Why it’s important: Provides the tangy, sweet, and smoky flavor that defines pulled pork.
- Substitutions: Homemade BBQ sauce, or a mix of ketchup, molasses, and spices. Use low-sugar or spicy varieties for dietary preferences.
Onion (1, sliced):
- Why it’s important: Adds sweet, savory depth to the cooking liquid.
- Substitutions: Yellow or red onion, shallots, or 1 tsp onion powder.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced):
- Why it’s important: Infuses the pork with warm, aromatic flavor.
- Substitutions: 1 tsp garlic powder or 2 tsp garlic paste.
Smoked Paprika (1 tsp):
- Why it’s important: Brings smoky depth that enhances the BBQ flavor.
- Substitutions: Regular paprika, chili powder, or chipotle powder for extra heat.
Cumin (1 tsp):
- Why it’s important: Adds earthy, warm flavor to complement the sauce.
- Substitutions: Ground coriander or omit for a simpler profile.
Salt and Pepper (to taste):
- Why it’s important: Enhances the flavors of the pork and spices.
Buns or Rice (for serving):
- Why it’s important: Provides a base to enjoy the pulled pork, perfect for sandwiches or bowls.
- Substitutions: Gluten-free buns, lettuce wraps, or cauliflower rice for low-carb.
Coleslaw (optional, for topping):
- Why it’s important: Adds creamy, crunchy contrast to the rich pork.
- Substitutions: Pickled onions, shredded lettuce, or omit.

Tip: Choose a well-marbled pork shoulder for maximum tenderness, and select a BBQ sauce you love, as it’s the star of the flavor profile.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Pork

Pat 3 lbs pork shoulder dry with paper towels and trim any excess fat if desired (leave some for flavor).
Season all sides with a generous pinch of salt, pepper, 1 tsp smoked paprika, and 1 tsp cumin.
Place the pork in the slow cooker.
Tip: Cut the pork into smaller chunks (2–3 pieces) for faster cooking if needed.

Step 2: Add Flavorings

Scatter 1 sliced onion and 4 minced garlic cloves around the pork.
Pour 1 cup BBQ sauce over the pork, ensuring it’s well-coated. Use a spoon or brush to spread the sauce evenly.
Tip: Add ¼ cup water or broth if your BBQ sauce is very thick to prevent burning.

Step 3: Cook

Cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours or high for 4–5 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Check doneness at the lower end of the time to avoid overcooking, as slow cookers vary.
Tip: Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain consistent heat.

Step 4: Shred and Mix

Remove the pork from the slow cooker using tongs and transfer to a large bowl or cutting board. Discard any large fat pieces.
Shred the pork with two forks.
Skim excess fat from the sauce in the slow cooker if desired, then return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and stir to coat with the sauce and juices.
Tip: For extra flavor, mix in an additional ¼–½ cup BBQ sauce after shredding.

Step 5: Serve

Serve the pulled pork on toasted buns for sandwiches or over rice for bowls.
Top with coleslaw for crunch and creaminess, if desired.
Tip: Toast buns lightly and warm rice just before serving for the best texture