Are you craving a comforting, flavourful meal that's surprisingly simple to make? Then look no further! This Dreamlight Valley-inspired pulled pork recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a casual get-together with friends and family. Forget complicated techniques and long cooking times; this recipe delivers tender, juicy pulled pork that melts in your mouth, all while being remarkably easy on your schedule. It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs 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 dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Your favorite BBQ sauce (for serving)
- Burger buns or coleslaw (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Building the Flavor Base
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chopped onion in a little oil until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step builds the foundation of rich flavor for your pulled pork.
Step 2: Marinate the Pork
Place the pork shoulder in the pot on top of the onion mixture. In a bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour this flavorful mixture over the pork, ensuring it's mostly submerged.
Step 3: Slow Cooking Magic
Cover the pot tightly and place it in the preheated oven. Let it slow cook for approximately 6-7 hours, or until the pork is incredibly tender and easily shreds with a fork. This slow cooking process is key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Patience is rewarded with unbelievably delicious results!
Step 4: Shred and Serve
Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes. Using two forks, shred the pork into smaller pieces. You can mix some of the cooking liquid into the shredded pork for extra moisture and flavor. Serve the pulled pork on burger buns with your favorite BBQ sauce, coleslaw, or any other desired toppings.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Pulled Pork:
- Don't rush the cooking process: The longer the pork simmers, the more tender it will become.
- 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 pulled pork flavor profile.
Variations:
- Spicy Pulled Pork: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Sweet and Smoky Pulled Pork: Increase the brown sugar to 1/3 cup and add a teaspoon of liquid smoke for a sweeter and smokier flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion size.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-30g
This Dreamlight Valley pulled pork recipe offers a fantastic balance of flavor and ease. It's a delicious and satisfying dish that's perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy this quick dinner idea and elevate your homemade cooking game! This recipe is sure to become one of your best recipes.