Pulled Pork in Crock Pot: A Tender and Juicy Slow-Cooked Delight
When it comes to a mouthwatering, tender, and juicy dish that’s perfect for any occasion, pulled pork is a true crowd-pleaser. This delicious recipe not only tastes amazing but is also easy to prepare, thanks to the slow cooker method. The key to achieving that perfect pulled pork is letting the meat cook slowly in a crockpot filled with flavorful ingredients. The result? An unforgettable meal that your family and friends will love. So, let’s dive into the steps of how to create this scrumptious dish!
Ingredients
To make your crockpot pulled pork, you will need the following ingredients:
- 3-4 lb pork shoulder (boneless or bone-in)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Feel free to customize the spices and seasonings according to your personal preferences, but these are the basics you’ll need to create an incredible, flavorful pulled pork dish.
Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to start cooking your pulled pork. Follow these easy steps for a scrumptious dish your guests will love:
- Step 1: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cumin.
- Step 2: Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, ensuring that it is well-coated.
- Step 3: Place the seasoned pork shoulder into the crockpot.
- Step 4: Pour the chicken broth into the crockpot, taking care not to wash off the spice rub from the meat.
- Step 5: Cook the pork on low heat for 8-10 hours or on high heat for 4-5 hours.
- Step 6: Once the pork is cooked and tender, remove it from the crockpot and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, use two forks to shred the meat.
- Step 7: Stir in the barbecue sauce and mix until the pulled pork is evenly coated.
- Step 8: Serve the pulled pork on sandwich buns, atop a salad, or as a filling for tacos or sliders.
History and Curiosities
Pulled pork has a rich history in the United States, particularly in the South. This dish is believed to have originated from the Carolinas, where pitmasters cooked whole pigs over wood and coals for hours, resulting in tender, smoky, flavorful meat. Pulled pork became popular during the early 1900s, and nowadays, it’s a staple of American barbecue cuisine.
Various regions have their own methods and preferences when it comes to cooking pulled pork. For instance, in the Carolinas, vinegar and pepper-based sauces are popular, while in other areas like Memphis and Kansas City, tomato-based sauces are common.
Crockpot pulled pork brings this beloved Southern dish to home kitchens, making it easy for everyone to enjoy tender and juicy pulled pork without the need for a smoker or barbecue pit. So, gather your family and friends, prepare this delicious recipe, and enjoy the fabulous taste of pulled pork in the comfort of your own home!