Slow Cooker Bbq Pulled Pork Fallapart Tender Every Time
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy some proper comfort food? This Crockpot Pulled Pork recipe is the stuff of legends. It's smoky, tangy, and will practically melt in your mouth.
Brief Overview
Pulled pork is a classic American BBQ dish. This recipe simplifies the process using a crockpot . It is easy, needs minimum effort and takes about 8- 10 hours on low or 4- 5 hours on high.
Makes 6-8 proper servings for your mates.
Main Benefits
This easy pulled pork is packed with protein and flavour. It is perfect for parties or Sunday lunch and it's proper amazing.
You know? The taste of this fall apart pulled pork is absolutely spot on.
Why This Crockpot Pulled Pork Rocks
Right, let's be honest. Who has time to stand over a smoker all day? Not me! That's why I love this slow cooker pulled pork .
It’s proper set-it-and-forget-it cooking. I remember one time I was making this for a BBQ, got distracted chatting with mates, and completely forgot about it.
Came back hours later, and it was still perfect. Honestly, it's fool proof.
I was looking for BBQ pulled pork recipe that was easy, reliable, and didn't compromise on flavour. After a bit of trial and error, I have made an outstanding pulled pork recipe that delivers tender, juicy meat every single time.
I even tried it with different pork shoulder recipe cuts. So, if you need slow cooker recipes this one will become a fast favourite.
And hey, the leftovers are amazing in sandwiches, tacos, or even on top of a jacket potato. Trust me, you'll be fighting over the last bit.
Fancy some pulled pork sandwiches ? I got you. This crockpot BBQ is proper amazing.
Let's get cracking with the ingredients.
Getting Started: Ingredients & Equipment for the Best Crockpot Pulled Pork
Right then, let’s get down to brass tacks. This slow cooker pulled pork is dead easy, but using decent ingredients makes all the difference. Trust me, it's worth it!
Main Ingredients
Here’s what you'll need for the best pulled pork recipe :
Pork Shoulder: 1 (3-4 pound) boneless pork shoulder roast ( 1.3 - 1.8 kg ). Look for a well marbled cut.
That fat is flavour, mate! Avoid anything too pale or with lots of visible sinew.
Smoked Paprika: 1 tablespoon ( 15 ml ). Adds a crucial smoky note.
Garlic Powder: 1 tablespoon ( 15 ml ). Essential for that savoury depth.
Onion Powder: 1 tablespoon ( 15 ml ). Balances the garlic.
Ground Cumin: 1 teaspoon ( 5 ml ). Adds earthiness.
Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon ( 5 ml ). A touch of warmth.
Cayenne Pepper: ½ teaspoon ( 2.5 ml ) (optional). For a bit of a kick, if you’re feeling brave.
Salt: 1 teaspoon ( 5 ml ). Seasoning is key!
Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon ( 2.5 ml ). Freshly ground is always best.
Ketchup: 1 cup ( 240 ml ). The base of our Crockpot BBQ sauce.
Apple Cider Vinegar: ½ cup ( 120 ml ). Adds tang and helps tenderize the pork.
Brown Sugar: ¼ cup , packed ( 50 g ). For sweetness and stickiness.
Worcestershire Sauce: 2 tablespoons ( 30 ml ). Umami magic!
Yellow Mustard: 1 tablespoon ( 15 ml ). Adds a subtle zing.
Liquid Smoke: 1 teaspoon ( 5 ml ) (optional). For extra smoky goodness.
Seasoning Notes
Honestly, the spice rub is where the magic happens. Smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cumin are your backbone. Don’t be shy! A little cayenne gives it a good oomph .
If you haven’t got liquid smoke, don’t fret. A dash more smoked paprika will do nicely. For a sweeter edge, a splash of honey works wonders too, turning it into the perfect BBQ pulled pork recipe .
Equipment Needed
You don't need a fancy kitchen for this easy pulled pork . Just the basics:
- Slow cooker: 6-quart or larger. Obviously! That's where the magic happens. The crockpot is your friend.
- Large Bowl: For mixing the spice rub.
- Whisk: For the BBQ sauce.
- Two Forks: For shredding that gloriously tender pork.
Don't have a whisk? Use a fork! No fancy bowl? A plastic container will do. It's all about getting the job done. This fall apart pulled pork is seriously forgiving.
Crockpot Magic: Fall Apart BBQ Pulled Pork, Sorted!
Fancy a bit of easy pulled pork that tastes like it's been slaved over for days? Honestly, who has the time? That's where the crockpot comes in! This Crockpot BBQ pulled pork recipe is so simple, even I can't mess it up and trust me, that's saying something.
We're talking melt-in-your mouth fall apart pulled pork , perfect for pulled pork sandwiches or just scoffing straight from the bowl (don't judge).
It is a slow cooker recipe that will bring smiles to everyone.
Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks in a Row
Right, first things first: the mise en place . Basically, get everything chopped, measured, and ready to go. It'll save you a load of faff later.
For time saving, measure out your spices into one bowl and your sauce ingredients into another. Easy peasy! Remember, no knives near kids, yeah? We don't want any A&E trips ruining our BBQ pulled pork recipe .
From Pork Shoulder to Pulled Perfection: A step-by-step Guide
Ready to get cracking? Here's the drill for the best Crockpot pulled pork ever:
- Mix your spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, cayenne pepper (optional), salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Rub that mixture ALL over your pork shoulder roast (1.3 - 1.8 kg). Get right in there.
- Whisk ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, and liquid smoke in another bowl.
- Chuck the pork into the crockpot . Pour the BBQ sauce over it.
- Cook on low for 8- 10 hours or high for 4- 5 hours . It needs to shred easily .
Pro Tips: The Secret Sauce
Here's the thing: don't skip the spice rub. It adds a depth of flavour that's unbelievable. If you're feeling fancy, sear the pork shoulder recipe in a hot pan first.
Trust me, it makes a difference. Common mistake? Not cooking it long enough! It needs to be practically falling apart .
You are looking for the perfect slow cooker pulled pork .
Recipe Notes For Your Crockpot BBQ Pulled Pork Adventure
Right then, so you're about to embark on your crockpot adventure! Honestly, the best pulled pork recipe is one that's easy and tasty.
I’ve been there myself. Here are some notes to help you nail this BBQ pulled pork recipe .
Ace Your Serving Suggestions
Want to plate up a stunner? Pile that fall apart pulled pork high on a toasted brioche bun. I find a dollop of creamy coleslaw and some crispy fried onions add a fab texture contrast.
For sides, think proper comfort food. Mac and cheese or some sweetcorn fritters would be spot on. And to drink? A refreshing ice-cold beer, like a crisp lager, is the perfect match! Or if you are more a teetotaller, a classic lemonade is the answer.
Get Savvy with Storage
Got leftovers? No worries. This easy pulled pork keeps well. Pop it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last for up to 3-4 days .
Wanna freeze it? Absolutely! Just let it cool completely first. Then portion it into freezer bags. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months .
Reheat gently in a pan or microwave until piping hot. Honestly, day-old pulled pork can taste even better!
Variations On A Theme
Fancy mixing things up a bit? For a healthier twist, try using a leaner cut of pork. Trim off any excess fat before cooking.
And reduce the brown sugar in the BBQ pulled pork recipe , or even use a sugar substitute. For a spicy kick, add some chopped jalapeños to the slow cooker pulled pork during cooking.
The slow cooker recipes options are endless.
Nutrition Lowdown
Alright, let's be real, this isn’t exactly health food. But it is delicious! Each serving has around 450-550 calories, 40-50g of protein, and 20-30g of fat.
There are also about 30-40g of carbs and 20-25g of sugar (mostly from the BBQ sauce). The spice rub is key to layering in flavour.
The internal temperature of the pork should reach around 203° F ( 95° C) for maximum tenderness. That protein will keep you going, and let's face it, sometimes you just need a bit of comfort food, don’t you?
So there you have it! My notes for making the perfect crockpot pulled pork . Get your pork shoulder recipe and just go for it! Honestly, this recipe is easy.
Enjoy your pulled pork sandwiches . You got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of pork for this crockpot pulled pork recipe?
While pork shoulder (also known as Boston butt) is the best cut for pulled pork due to its high fat content which renders beautifully during slow cooking, you could use a pork loin in a pinch. However, be warned! Pork loin is much leaner, so the resulting pulled pork will be drier.
To combat this, consider adding extra BBQ sauce or a splash of apple juice to the crockpot for added moisture and keep an eye on it, it might cook quicker.
How long should I really cook my pulled pork in the crockpot?
The million dollar question! Generally, 8-10 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high is a good guideline. However, cooking times can vary depending on your specific slow cooker and the size of your pork shoulder. The pork is ready when it's easily shreddable with a fork.
If it's still tough, give it another hour or two patience is a virtue, especially with slow cooking! Remember the pork shoulder should reach an internal temperature of around 203°F (95°C).
My BBQ sauce is too thin after cooking. How can I thicken it up?
No worries, this happens! The easiest way to thicken the BBQ sauce from your crockpot is to carefully pour it into a saucepan after you've removed the pork. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat and let it reduce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired consistency.
Alternatively, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water to make a slurry and whisk that into the sauce while simmering.
Can I make this pulled pork ahead of time, and how should I store it?
Absolutely, this recipe is perfect for making ahead! Once you've shredded the pork, let it cool slightly, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months.
When reheating, add a little extra BBQ sauce or broth to keep it moist no one wants dry pulled pork! You can reheat it in a saucepan on the stovetop, in the oven, or even back in the slow cooker on low.
I'm watching my weight. Any tips for making this crockpot pulled pork healthier?
Good on you! There are definitely ways to lighten this dish up. First, trim off any excess fat from the pork shoulder before cooking. You can also skim off any rendered fat from the top of the sauce after cooking. Consider using a sugar substitute in the BBQ sauce and opt for whole wheat buns.
Serve it with a light and tangy vinegar based coleslaw instead of a creamy one, or even on top of a big salad for a low-carb option.
What are some creative ways to use leftover pulled pork?
Don't let that delicious pulled pork go to waste! Beyond the classic sandwiches, try using it in tacos, quesadillas, or nachos. It's also fantastic in omelets, on pizzas, or even stirred into mac and cheese for a BBQ twist.
For a proper posh nosh, try making pulled pork sliders with pickled onions and a drizzle of sriracha mayo. The possibilities are endless let your culinary imagination run wild!
Slow Cooker Bbq Pulled Pork Fallapart Tender Eve
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 450-550 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 20-30g |
| Fiber | 0g |
