Pulled pork is a classic comfort food dish loved by many for its tender, flavorful meat that practically melts in your mouth. Originating from the Southern United States, pulled pork is typically made from pork shoulder or pork butt, slow-cooked until it’s so tender it can be easily shredded into succulent strands. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, a casual gathering with friends, or simply craving some hearty comfort food, pulled pork is always a crowd-pleaser. In this recipe, we’ll walk you through how to make mouthwatering pulled pork that’s perfect for any occasion.
**Ingredients:**
– 4-5 pounds pork shoulder or pork butt
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons paprika
– 2 tablespoons garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup barbecue sauce
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Hamburger buns or sandwich rolls, for serving
**Step-by-Step Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Pork:** Start by trimming any excess fat from the pork shoulder or pork butt. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper to make the dry rub.
2. **Season the Pork:** Rub the dry rub mixture all over the surface of the pork, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Let the seasoned pork sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
3. **Preheat the Oven or Grill:** Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) or prepare your grill for indirect cooking.
4. **Cook the Pork:** If using an oven, place the seasoned pork in a roasting pan or baking dish. If using a grill, place the pork on the indirect heat side of the grill. Cook the pork low and slow for 6-8 hours, or until it’s fork-tender and easily pulls apart.
5. **Shred the Pork:** Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the oven or grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces. Discard any excess fat.
6. **Make the Sauce:** In a small saucepan, combine the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and chicken broth. Heat the sauce over medium heat until warmed through.
7. **Combine the Pork and Sauce:** Place the shredded pork in a large bowl and pour the warm sauce over the top. Gently toss the pork until it’s evenly coated with the sauce.
8. **Serve:** Toast the hamburger buns or sandwich rolls lightly. Spoon the saucy pulled pork onto the bottom halves of the buns, then cover with the top halves.
**Tips:**
– For extra flavor, marinate the pork in the dry rub overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
– If using a slow cooker, cook the pork on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.
– Feel free to customize the dry rub or sauce to suit your taste preferences. Add a dash of hot sauce for some heat or a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth of flavor.
With its tender, juicy meat and rich, smoky flavor, homemade pulled pork is a true crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue, a casual weeknight dinner, or a game day gathering, this pulled pork recipe is sure to be a hit. So fire up the grill or preheat the oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the irresistible taste of homemade pulled pork!
