Pulled pork is a classic American dish that is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy winter dinner. It’s juicy, flavorful, and easy to make. With this ultimate pulled pork recipe, you’ll learn how to cook the best pulled pork of your life.
Ingredients
- 2 kg pork shoulder
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1/2 tbsp black pepper
- 500 ml barbecue sauce
- 4 hamburger buns
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 150°C.
- In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder.
- Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the pork shoulder and sear on all sides until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
- Pour the barbecue sauce over the pork shoulder.
- Cover the Dutch oven with a lid and transfer it to the oven.
- Cook the pork shoulder for 8 hours, or until it is tender and falls apart easily with a fork.
- Remove the pork shoulder from the Dutch oven and shred it with two forks.
- Serve the pulled pork on hamburger buns with a side of coleslaw.
Variations
Vegetarian/Vegan Pulled “Pork”
If you’re following a vegetarian or vegan diet, you can still enjoy the flavors of pulled pork with this meat-free version. Simply replace the pork shoulder with a block of firm tofu or a can of jackfruit. Drain and press the tofu or jackfruit to remove excess moisture, then shred it with a fork. Follow the same cooking method as the pork, but reduce the cooking time to 4 hours.
Smoky Pulled Pork
For a smokier flavor, add 1 tbsp of liquid smoke to the barbecue sauce before pouring it over the pork shoulder. You can also cook the pork shoulder on a smoker instead of in the oven.
Spicy Pulled Pork
If you like your pulled pork with a kick, add 1 tsp of cayenne pepper to the spice mixture. You can also top your pulled pork with sliced jalapeños or hot sauce.
Carolina-style Pulled Pork
Carolina-style pulled pork is traditionally served with a vinegar-based sauce instead of a tomato-based barbecue sauce. To make the sauce, combine 1 cup of apple cider vinegar, 1/2 cup of water, 2 tbsp of brown sugar, 1 tbsp of hot sauce, 1 tbsp of Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp of salt, and 1 tsp of black pepper in a small saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Pour the sauce over the pulled pork before serving.
With this ultimate pulled pork recipe, you can enjoy juicy and tender pulled pork with a crispy crust, served on a soft hamburger bun with a side of coleslaw. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this recipe is sure to impress.
FAQ
What cut of meat is used for pulled pork?
Pulled pork is usually made from the pork shoulder or pork butt.
Should I cook pulled pork covered or uncovered?
It is recommended to cook pulled pork covered for most of the cooking time to keep the moisture in. Uncover for the last hour to get a crispy exterior.
Can I make pulled pork in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make pulled pork in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or until the meat is tender and easily pulled apart.
Do I need to marinate the pork before cooking?
It is not necessary to marinate the pork before cooking, but you can if you want to add some extra flavor to the meat.
What is the best way to shred the pork?
The easiest way to shred the pork is to use two forks and pull the meat apart in opposite directions.
Can I make pulled pork ahead of time?
Yes, you can make pulled pork ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
What can I serve with pulled pork?
Pulled pork is often served with coleslaw, baked beans, cornbread, or potato salad.
Can I use a different sauce for pulled pork?
Yes, you can use any sauce you like for pulled pork. Some popular options include barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar sauce, or Carolina-style mustard sauce.
How long does it take to cook pulled pork?
It usually takes around 8-10 hours to cook pulled pork, depending on the size of the pork shoulder or pork butt.
Can I make pulled pork in the oven?
Yes, you can make pulled pork in the oven. Cook at 325°F (160°C) for 4-5 hours or until the meat is tender and easily pulled apart.
