Are you craving a tender, juicy, and unbelievably flavorful pulled pork recipe? Look no further! This pulled pork coke recipe is a game-changer, offering a surprisingly delicious blend of sweet and savory notes that will leave you wanting more. It’s surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a weekend cookout or a quick weeknight dinner. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this amazing homemade cooking masterpiece! This easy recipe is also a great option for healthy meals, offering a satisfying and delicious alternative to takeout.
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs boneless pork shoulder (butt roast)
- 1 (12-ounce) can Coca-Cola
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Pork Shoulder
Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a nice sear.
Step 2: Creating the Flavorful Braising Liquid
In a large bowl, whisk together the Coca-Cola, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Slow Cooking Magic
Place the pork shoulder in a slow cooker or Dutch oven. Pour the braising liquid over the pork, ensuring it's mostly submerged. If using a slow cooker, cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is incredibly tender and easily shreds. If using a Dutch oven, cover and braise in a preheated 325°F (160°C) oven for 4-5 hours, or until tender.
Step 4: Shredding the Pork
Once the pork is cooked through, remove it from the slow cooker or Dutch oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. Using two forks, shred the pork into smaller pieces.
Step 5: Mixing it All Together
Skim off excess fat from the cooking liquid. Add the shredded pork back into the slow cooker or Dutch oven and mix it well with the remaining braising liquid. This ensures every piece of pork is coated in that delicious sauce.
Step 6: Serving Suggestions
Serve your pulled pork on buns with your favorite coleslaw, or use it as a filling for tacos, burritos, or nachos. This versatile dish is perfect for quick dinner ideas or a more elaborate meal.
Cooking Tips for Pulled Pork Perfection:
- Don't skip the browning: For extra flavor, sear the pork shoulder in a pan before adding it to the slow cooker.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet pulled pork, reduce the amount of brown sugar.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
Variations:
- Spicy Pulled Pork: Add a few chopped jalapeños or a tablespoon of chili powder to the braising liquid.
- BBQ Pulled Pork: After shredding, mix in your favorite BBQ sauce.
- Apple Pulled Pork: Add 1/2 cup of chopped apples to the slow cooker along with the pork.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-30g
This pulled pork coke recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. The combination of sweet and savory flavors is truly irresistible, and the tender pork will melt in your mouth. Enjoy!