Tender BBQ Pulled Pork

Tender BBQ Pulled Pork: A Southern Comfort Classic!

Picture this: tender BBQ pulled pork that falls apart at the touch of a fork, smothered in a rich, smoky BBQ sauce that tantalizes your taste buds. That’s the magic of BBQ pulled pork, a dish that transforms a humble cut of meat into a flavor-packed masterpiece. This slow-cooked delight is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together, evoking memories of summer cookouts and family gatherings.

As the pork slowly simmers, your kitchen will be filled with an irresistible aroma that promises a meal worth waiting for. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity – a few quality ingredients and patience are all you need to create a dish that tastes like it came straight from a Southern smokehouse. Whether piled high on a soft bun, tucked into tacos, or served alongside creamy coleslaw, this versatile crowd-pleaser is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire.

Originating in the American South, BBQ pulled pork has a rich history rooted in the tradition of whole hog barbecues. Today, we’ve adapted this classic for the home cook, making it accessible without sacrificing flavor. Not only is it delicious, but pork is also a good source of protein and B vitamins. Pair it with a crisp apple cider or a cold beer for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Tender BBQ Pulled Pork Recipe

Ingredients:

4 pounds pork shoulder (Boston butt)

2 tablespoons brown sugar

2 tablespoons paprika

1 tablespoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon onion powder

1 tablespoon salt

1 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 cup apple cider vinegar

1/4 cup water

2 cups BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to create a dry rub.

2. Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels and rub the spice mixture all over the meat, making sure to coat it evenly.

3. Place the seasoned pork in a slow cooker. Pour in the apple cider vinegar and water around the sides of the meat.

4. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 6-7 hours, until the pork is very tender and easily shreds with a fork.

5. Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a large cutting board. Let it rest for 10 minutes.

6. Using two forks, shred the pork, discarding any large pieces of fat.

7. Skim off any excess fat from the liquid in the slow cooker and discard.

8. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix with the remaining cooking liquid.

9. Stir in the BBQ sauce and cook on low for an additional 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

10. Serve hot on buns, in tacos, or as desired. (See notes)

Elevated Cooking Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, add a tablespoon of liquid smoke to the slow cooker along with the vinegar and water. This will give your pulled pork a delicious smokehouse taste without the need for a smoker.

Notes:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
• For a tangy twist, add a splash of bourbon to the BBQ sauce before mixing it with the pork.
• Serve with coleslaw, cheese slice, and pickled onions on a bun, or on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.

Nutrition Information

Calories: 385 per serving

Fat: 22g

Protein: 32g

Carbohydrates: 15g

Fiber: 1g

Sugar: 12g

Sodium: 780mg

Serving size: 1/2 cup (4 oz)

Other Information

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 8-10 hours

Equipment: Slow cooker, mixing bowl, cutting board, forks

Estimated cost per serving: $2.50

Total cost: $20.00 (8 servings)

In Conclusion, Tender BBQ Pulled Pork

In conclusion, this BBQ pulled pork recipe offers a delicious, cost-effective way to feed a crowd or meal prep for the week. With its rich flavors and tender texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in any household that appreciates good, hearty food.

Read about Texas South by Southwest Cuisine here.

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