Slow Cooker Texas Pulled Pork is a mouthwatering, tender, and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines a perfectly seasoned pork shoulder roast with the ease of slow cooking, resulting in pulled pork that’s deliciously smoky, slightly sweet, and savory. Serve it on buns for a classic pulled pork sandwich or enjoy it as is with your favorite sides.
Ingredients
- 1 (4-5 pound) pork shoulder roast (also known as pork butt)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (plus more for serving)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Buns for serving (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Shoulder
- Trim the Pork:
- Trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder roast.
- Season the Pork:
- In a small bowl, mix together the onion powder, garlic powder, brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, ground cumin, black pepper, and salt.
- Rub the seasoning mixture all over the pork shoulder, ensuring it’s well coated.
Step 2: Sear the Pork (Optional)
- Heat the Olive Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Sear the Pork:
- Sear the pork shoulder on all sides until it’s browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step is optional but adds extra flavor.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Pork
- Add the Liquids:
- Place the seasoned pork shoulder into the slow cooker.
- Pour in the chicken broth, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and apple cider vinegar around the pork.
- Cover and Cook:
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Step 4: Shred the Pork
- Remove and Shred:
- Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board.
- Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
- Return to Slow Cooker:
- Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix it with the juices.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve:
- Serve the pulled pork on buns for sandwiches, or on a plate with your favorite sides.
- Add Barbecue Sauce:
- Drizzle additional barbecue sauce over the pulled pork, if desired.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Searing the Pork: Searing the pork before slow cooking adds depth of flavor but is optional.
- Cooking Time: Ensure the pork is cooked until it’s tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Variations
Make it Spicy
- Add Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.
Make it Sweet
- Sweeten the Sauce: Add 1-2 tablespoons of honey or molasses to the barbecue sauce for a sweeter flavor.
Add Vegetables
- Onions and Peppers: Add sliced onions and bell peppers to the slow cooker for added flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Sandwiches
- Classic Pulled Pork Sandwich: Serve the pulled pork on soft buns with coleslaw and pickles.
- Sliders: Use smaller buns or rolls for pulled pork sliders, perfect for parties and gatherings.
Sides
- Coleslaw: Serve with a side of coleslaw for a classic combination.
- Cornbread: Pair with cornbread for a Southern-inspired meal.
- Baked Beans: Serve with baked beans for a hearty and satisfying meal.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different cut of pork? A: Pork shoulder (or pork butt) is recommended for its fat content and flavor, but you can use pork loin for a leaner option, though it may be less tender.
Q: How do I thicken the sauce? A: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the slow cooker about 30 minutes before the cooking time is up. Turn the slow cooker to high to help thicken the sauce.
Q: Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the pork shoulder and season it the night before. Store it in the refrigerator, and in the morning, transfer it to the slow cooker and cook as directed.
Slow Cooker Texas Pulled Pork is a simple and delicious way to enjoy tender, flavorful pork with minimal effort. Perfect for sandwiches, sliders, or served with your favorite sides, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy experimenting with different variations and serving suggestions to make this dish your own. Happy cooking!
