Tasty Slow Cooker Pulled Pork - When pulled pork comes to mind we always associate it with the slow and low style of cooking. To make the best pulled pork, it's important to plan ahead and dedicate some time to preparing and cooking the meat. The pork cooks at a low temperature and that takes some time. This cooking method helps to bring out all the flavors that will literally melt in your mouth and make the pork fall apart.
We usually want to make easy, simple recipes that are quick, especially in the summer. This pulled pork recipe is easy and simple it just takes a bit of time to cook, about 8-10 hours.
Simply put, you basically just need to prepare the pork and let the slow cooker do the work. So it doesn't really feel like extra effort on your part and it is well worth it.
Ingredients You Will Need
For this slow cooked Carolina pulled pork recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4-5 pounds of boneless pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup water
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Follow these steps to create a delicious slow cooked pulled pork:
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Rub this mixture all over the pork shoulder.
- Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker. Pour the apple cider vinegar and water around the pork.
- Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
- Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix it with the juices.
- Let the pork sit in the juices for another 30 minutes on the 'warm' setting to absorb the flavors.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Once you make the pulled pork, you can make various recipes with it such as Pulled Pork BBQ Sandwiches with our Homemade BBQ Sauce and Extra Creamy Cole Slaw. This coleslaw is great for sandwiches since it is thick and not runny. No soggy sandwiches!!
You can also make pulled pork pizza, pulled pork tacos or nachos. Or, simply enjoy the meat with a side dish such as Bacon Egg Potato Salad or Bacon Ranch Potato Salad.
How to store and reheat leftovers
To store leftover pulled pork, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for 3-4 days.
You can also freeze it by letting it cool down completely and then placing it in freezer safe ziploc bags or a Food Saver. It will stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months.
If you just want to reheat it, preheat your oven to 250°F, cover the meat with foil, and place it in the oven. Let it heat for about 30 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
