Unlock the Secret to Making Pulled Pork from Leftover Roast: Save Time and Cravings
What To Know
- If using an Instant Pot, add the marinated roast to the pot and pour in enough water to cover the meat.
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat a little oil and add the marinated roast.
- Cook in a slow cooker for 6-8 hours, in an Instant Pot for 45 minutes, or on the stovetop for 20-30 minutes.
When you’ve got leftover roast on hand, don’t let it go to waste. Instead, turn it into a flavorful and tender pulled pork that will tantalize your taste buds. This easy-to-follow guide will show you how to make pulled pork with leftover roast in just a few simple steps.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Leftover roast (pork, beef, or chicken)
- Barbecue sauce of your choice
- Brown sugar (optional)
- Honey (optional)
- Apple cider vinegar (optional)
- Onion (optional)
- Garlic (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Roast
- Remove any bones or excess fat from the leftover roast.
- Shred the roast into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
2. Create the Sauce
- In a large bowl, combine your desired barbecue sauce with brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, onion, and garlic (optional). Adjust the seasonings to taste.
3. Combine Meat and Sauce
- Pour the sauce over the shredded roast and mix thoroughly.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Cook in Slow Cooker
- Transfer the marinated roast to a slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
5. Cook in Instant Pot
- If using an Instant Pot, add the marinated roast to the pot and pour in enough water to cover the meat.
- Cook on high pressure for 45 minutes, then release the pressure and shred the meat.
6. Cook on the Stovetop
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat a little oil and add the marinated roast.
- Cook over medium heat for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is heated through and slightly browned.
7. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the pulled pork on sandwiches, tacos, or as a main dish with your favorite sides.
Enhancing the Flavor:
- For a sweeter pulled pork, add 1/4 cup of brown sugar to the sauce.
- For a tangy flavor, add 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to the sauce.
- For a smoky flavor, add 1/4 cup of liquid smoke to the sauce.
- For a spicy kick, add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
Leftover Pulled Pork Storage:
- Store leftover pulled pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze leftover pulled pork in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pulled pork sandwiches on toasted buns with your favorite toppings
- Pulled pork tacos with corn tortillas, salsa, and cilantro
- Pulled pork sliders as an appetizer or party snack
- Pulled pork over rice or mashed potatoes
The Ultimate Pulled Pork Experience:
Now that you know how to make pulled pork with leftover roast, you can enjoy this versatile dish in countless ways. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, gathering with friends, or simply craving a comforting meal, pulled pork is the perfect choice.
What People Want to Know
1. Can I use any type of leftover roast?
Yes, you can use leftover pork, beef, or chicken roast to make pulled pork.
2. How long should I cook the pulled pork?
The cooking time will depend on the method you choose. Cook in a slow cooker for 6-8 hours, in an Instant Pot for 45 minutes, or on the stovetop for 20-30 minutes.
3. Can I make pulled pork in advance?
Yes, you can marinate the roast overnight or up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also cook the pulled pork ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.