When it comes to classic comfort food, few dishes rival the succulent, smoky goodness of BBQ pulled pork. Tender shreds of slow-cooked pork infused with tangy barbecue sauce create a flavor explosion that is beloved by many. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue, planning a family gathering, or simply craving a hearty meal, making BBQ pulled pork is a surefire way to satisfy taste buds and create lasting memories.
Ingredients You'll Need:
For the Pork:
- 4-5 pounds of bone-in pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons of your favorite pork rub or a mixture of paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- For the BBQ Sauce:
- 1 1/2 cups of ketchup
- 1/2 cup of brown sugar
- 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup of Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons of mustard (yellow or Dijon)
- 2 tablespoons of chili powder
- 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon of garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon of onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork:
Trim and Rub: Begin by trimming excess fat from the pork shoulder, leaving a thin layer for flavor. Rub the pork with your chosen spice mixture or pre-made rub, ensuring it's evenly coated.
Sear the Meat (Optional but recommended): In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides until it develops a nice crust. This step adds an extra layer of flavor, but you can skip it if you're short on time.
2. Slow Cook the Pork:
Crockpot Method:
Place the seared or unseared pork in a slow cooker.
Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender and easily shreds.
Oven Method:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
Place the pork in a covered roasting pan or Dutch oven and cook for 4-5 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender.
3. Make the BBQ Sauce:
Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together all the BBQ sauce ingredients over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Simmer and Thicken: Allow the sauce to simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help it thicken and the flavors to meld.
4. Shred and Sauce:
Shred the Pork: Once the pork is done cooking, remove it from the slow cooker or oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Use two forks to shred the meat, discarding any bones or large pieces of fat.
Add the BBQ Sauce: Pour the prepared BBQ sauce over the shredded pork. Use as much or as little as you prefer, depending on your taste.
Mix and Heat: Gently toss the pork in the sauce until it's well coated. If needed, return the mixture to the slow cooker or oven for an additional 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld further.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serving Suggestions: Serve the BBQ pulled pork on toasted buns, accompanied by coleslaw, pickles, or your favorite sides.
Garnish (Optional): Sprinkle some chopped fresh cilantro, green onions, or grated cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
Pro Tips:
Let it Rest: Allowing the pork to rest after cooking helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the pork and sauce a day in advance and reheat it before serving for even more developed flavors.
Experiment with Flavors: Don't be afraid to customize the rub or sauce with your favorite spices or a touch of heat for a unique twist.
By following these steps and adding your own personal touch, you'll be well on your way to creating a mouthwatering batch of BBQ pulled pork that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy the delicious journey of creating this classic comfort food!
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