Are you craving tender, juicy pulled pork that practically melts in your mouth? Forget takeout and fire up your Traeger! This recipe delivers fall-apart-tender, smoky pulled pork that’s surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a weekend feast or a quick weeknight dinner. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious, healthy, and homemade masterpiece. This easy recipe is a game-changer for quick dinner ideas, and it’s one of the best recipes you’ll ever try!
Ingredients:
- 4-5 lb pork shoulder (butt roast)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Shoulder
Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. This helps the rub adhere better and promotes a nice bark.
Step 2: Create the Dry Rub
In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Step 3: Season the Pork
Generously rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, ensuring it's evenly coated.
Step 4: Preheat Your Traeger
Preheat your Traeger smoker to 225°F (107°C). Use your favorite wood pellets – hickory or applewood work particularly well with pork.
Step 5: Smoke the Pork
Place the pork shoulder on the Traeger grill grates, fat cap up. Smoke for 12-14 hours, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 195-205°F (91-96°C). You’ll know it’s done when it’s incredibly tender and easily shreds.
Step 6: Create the Mop Sauce
While the pork is smoking, combine the apple cider vinegar and chicken broth in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it gently simmer for 30 minutes, or until slightly reduced. Use a basting brush to apply this mop sauce to the pork every couple of hours during the smoking process for added moisture and flavor.
Step 7: Shred the Pork
Once the pork reaches the desired internal temperature, carefully remove it from the smoker and let it rest for at least 30 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in incredibly tender and juicy pulled pork. Use two forks to shred the pork, discarding any large pieces of fat.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delicious Traeger smoked pulled pork on buns with your favorite coleslaw, BBQ sauce, or other desired toppings.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Pulled Pork:
- Use a meat thermometer: This is crucial for ensuring your pork is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Don't rush the process: Low and slow smoking is key to achieving tender, juicy pulled pork.
- Experiment with different wood pellets: Each type of wood imparts a unique flavor to the pork.
- Consider adding a foil sling: Wrapping the pork in foil during the last few hours of cooking can help retain moisture.
Variations:
- Spicy Pulled Pork: Add more cayenne pepper to the rub or use a spicy BBQ sauce.
- Sweet Pulled Pork: Increase the amount of brown sugar in the rub or add a touch of maple syrup to the mop sauce.
- Citrus Pulled Pork: Add some orange or lime zest to the rub for a bright, refreshing flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This Traeger smoked pulled pork recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s a fantastic example of healthy meals that are also incredibly delicious and easy to prepare. Enjoy the amazing flavors and tender texture of this homemade cooking masterpiece. It's a go-to recipe that will elevate your BBQ game to a whole new level.