Are you hosting a gathering soon and dreading the hours spent in the kitchen? Fear not! This slow cooker pulled pork recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, requiring minimal effort for maximum deliciousness. It's the perfect example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions. Get ready to impress your guests with this simple yet stunning dish, a true champion among healthy meals and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 lb boneless pork shoulder (butt roast)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Your favorite BBQ sauce (about 1 cup) for serving
Instructions:
-
Prep the Pork: Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. This helps it brown better and develop a deeper flavor.
-
Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step adds a depth of flavor that elevates the whole dish.
-
Combine Ingredients: Place the pork shoulder in your slow cooker. Add the sautéed onion and garlic mixture, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
-
Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-6 hours, or until the pork is easily shredded with a fork. The longer it cooks, the more tender it will be. This is one of the best aspects of crockpot recipes – set it and forget it!
-
Shred the Pork: Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. Use two forks to shred the pork, discarding any large pieces of fat.
-
Mix and Serve: Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker. Stir in about half of your favorite BBQ sauce. Mix well to coat the pork evenly. You can add more BBQ sauce depending on your preferred level of sweetness and tanginess. Serve on buns, with coleslaw, or alongside your favorite sides.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Pulled Pork:
- Don't overcrowd the slow cooker: Ensure there's enough space for the pork to cook evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer: For foolproof results, check the internal temperature of the pork. It should reach an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C).
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs to create your unique flavor profile. A dash of cayenne pepper adds a nice kick!
Variations:
- Spicy Pulled Pork: Add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients.
- Carolina Pulled Pork: Use a vinegar-based BBQ sauce for a tangier flavor.
- Hawaiian Pulled Pork: Add a can of crushed pineapple and a splash of soy sauce for a sweet and savory twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-30g
This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking that's both delicious and easy. It's perfect for large gatherings, potlucks, or a satisfying weeknight dinner for the family. This recipe allows you to create delicious dishes without spending hours in the kitchen, making it a go-to recipe for anyone looking for best recipes to impress their loved ones. Enjoy!