BBQ Without the Fuss: Master the Art of Pulled Pork in a Crock Pot

Craving tender, juicy pulled pork barbecue without the hassle of a smoker? Look no further than the trusty crock pot! With this convenient appliance, you can effortlessly create a smoky, flavorful pulled pork masterpiece in the comfort of your own kitchen. Follow our step-by-step guide to master the art of “how to make pulled pork bbq in crock pot.”

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4-5 pound pork shoulder (also known as pork butt or Boston butt)
• 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Preparation

1. Trim the Pork: Remove any excess fat from the pork shoulder. This will help the BBQ sauce penetrate the meat better.
2. Create the Rub: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well.
3. Apply the Rub: Generously rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, ensuring it coats every surface.

Cooking in the Crock Pot

1. Place the Pork in the Crock Pot: Transfer the seasoned pork shoulder to the crock pot.
2. Add the Liquids: Pour the barbecue sauce and apple cider vinegar over the pork. The liquids should come about halfway up the pork.
3. Cook on Low: Cover the crock pot and cook on the “Low” setting for 8-10 hours. The longer you cook it, the more tender the pork will become.
4. Check for Doneness: After 8 hours, use a fork to check the tenderness of the pork. It should easily shred when you pull at it.
5. Shred the Pork: Once the pork is tender, remove it from the crock pot and shred it using two forks.

Finishing Touches

1. Return the Pork to the Crock Pot: Place the shredded pork back into the crock pot.
2. Add More Sauce: If desired, add more barbecue sauce to achieve your preferred level of flavor and moisture.
3. Warm Through: Heat the shredded pork on the “Warm” setting for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Serving Suggestions

• On Buns: Serve the pulled pork on hamburger buns with your favorite toppings, such as coleslaw, pickles, and onions.
• On Sandwiches: Use the pulled pork as a filling for sandwiches on bread, tortillas, or even croissants.
• As a Taco Filling: Fill tortillas with pulled pork and top with salsa, cheese, and sour cream.
• On Pizza: Create a unique pizza by topping it with pulled pork, barbecue sauce, and your favorite cheese.

Tips for Perfect Pulled Pork BBQ

• Use a Bone-In Pork Shoulder: The bone adds extra flavor and helps keep the meat moist.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Crock Pot: If the pork is too tightly packed, it won’t cook evenly.
• Check for Liquid: If the liquid evaporates too much during cooking, add more barbecue sauce or apple cider vinegar.
• Let It Rest: After shredding the pork, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender meat.

How to Store and Reheat Pulled Pork BBQ

• Store: Refrigerate the pulled pork in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Reheat the pulled pork in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.

What People Want to Know

Q: Can I use a different type of meat for pulled pork?
A: Yes, you can use beef chuck roast or pork tenderloin, but the cooking time may vary.

Q: What can I add to the barbecue sauce for extra flavor?
A: Try adding honey, molasses, or a splash of bourbon to enhance the sweetness and complexity of the sauce.

Q: Can I cook pulled pork in a crock pot without barbecue sauce?
A: Yes, you can create a dry rub using spices and seasonings, but the pork will not have the same sweet and tangy flavor as when using barbecue sauce.