Tenderloin to Pulled Pork: Can You Pull Off This BBQ Miracle?

Pulled pork, a beloved barbecue delicacy, is typically made from a pork shoulder. But what if you’re craving this tender and flavorful dish but don’t have a pork shoulder on hand? Can you make pulled pork from tenderloin instead? The answer is yes, and in this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the art of crafting pulled pork from tenderloin, exploring its nuances and providing step-by-step instructions to help you achieve barbecue perfection.

What is Pork Tenderloin?

Pork tenderloin is a lean and tender cut of meat from the loin area of the pig. It’s known for its delicate flavor and soft texture, making it a popular choice for grilling, roasting, and pan-searing.

Can You Make Pulled Pork from Tenderloin?

While pork shoulder is the traditional cut used for pulled pork, tenderloin can also be used to create a delicious and satisfying dish. However, due to its leaner nature, tenderloin requires a different cooking method and a few additional steps to achieve the desired pulled pork texture.

Advantages of Using Tenderloin for Pulled Pork

• Leaner: Tenderloin is a leaner cut of meat, making it a healthier option compared to pork shoulder.
• Tender: The natural tenderness of tenderloin ensures a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Versatile: Pulled pork from tenderloin can be used in various dishes, from sandwiches to tacos to salads.

Disadvantages of Using Tenderloin for Pulled Pork

• Smaller Yield: Tenderloin is a smaller cut of meat, yielding less pulled pork compared to pork shoulder.
• More Expensive: Tenderloin is generally more expensive than pork shoulder.
• Can Dry Out: Tenderloin can dry out more easily than pork shoulder, requiring careful cooking techniques.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Pulled Pork from Tenderloin

Ingredients:

• 2-3 pounds pork tenderloin
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Trim and Season: Trim excess fat from the tenderloin and season liberally with salt and pepper.
2. Sear: Heat a large skillet or grill over medium heat. Sear the tenderloin on all sides until golden brown.
3. Create a Slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
4. Slow Cook: Place the seared tenderloin in a slow cooker. Pour the slurry over the tenderloin and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the meat is fall-off-the-bone tender.
5. Shred: Remove the tenderloin from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
6. Combine and Heat: Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and stir in the remaining barbecue sauce. Heat for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
7. Serve: Serve the pulled pork warm on buns, tortillas, or salads.

Tips for Making the Best Pulled Pork from Tenderloin

• Use a flavorful barbecue sauce: The barbecue sauce is a crucial component of pulled pork. Choose a sauce that complements the natural flavor of the tenderloin.
• Don’t overcook: Tenderloin can dry out quickly. Monitor the cooking time and remove it from the slow cooker when it’s tender but not overcooked.
• Add liquid if needed: If the pulled pork becomes too dry, add a small amount of liquid, such as chicken broth or apple juice, and continue cooking until desired consistency is achieved.
• Let it rest: Allow the pulled pork to rest for 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.

Variations on Pulled Pork from Tenderloin

• Spicy Pulled Pork: Add 1-2 teaspoons of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the barbecue sauce.
• Smoky Pulled Pork: Add 1/2 cup liquid smoke to the slow cooker along with the barbecue sauce.
• Hawaiian Pulled Pork: Add 1/2 cup pineapple chunks and 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce to the slow cooker.
• Peach Pulled Pork: Add 1/2 cup diced peaches and 1/4 cup peach preserves to the slow cooker.

Pulled Pork from Tenderloin: A Versatile Dish

Pulled pork from tenderloin is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways:

• Sandwiches: Serve the pulled pork on soft buns with your favorite toppings, such as coleslaw, onions, and pickles.
• Tacos: Fill tortillas with pulled pork, shredded cheese, and salsa for a quick and tasty meal.
• Salads: Add pulled pork to salads for an extra layer of protein and flavor.
• Pizza: Use pulled pork as a topping on pizza for a unique and flavorful twist.

The Verdict: Can You Make Pulled Pork from Tenderloin?

The answer is a resounding yes! While pork shoulder is the traditional cut for pulled pork, tenderloin can be used to create a delicious and satisfying dish with a slightly different texture. By following the step-by-step instructions and tips provided, you can master the art of making pulled pork from tenderloin and impress your friends and family with this versatile and flavorful barbecue delicacy.

What You Need to Know

Q: Is pulled pork from tenderloin as good as pulled pork from shoulder?
A: While the texture may be slightly different, pulled pork from tenderloin can be just as delicious and flavorful as pulled pork from shoulder when prepared correctly.

Q: Can I use any type of barbecue sauce for pulled pork from tenderloin?
A: Yes, you can use your favorite barbecue sauce. However, sweeter sauces tend to pair better with the delicate flavor of tenderloin.

Q: How do I prevent pulled pork from tenderloin from drying out?
A: Monitor the cooking time carefully and remove the tenderloin from the slow cooker when it’s tender but not overcooked. You can also add small amounts of liquid, such as chicken broth or apple juice, if needed.