Looking for the best pulled pork recipes that you can make at home? Look no further! This compilation includes six delicious pulled pork recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From classic BBQ pulled pork to spicy and tangy variations, these recipes are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients for Pulled Pork Recipes
1. Classic BBQ Pulled Pork
- 3-4 pounds pork shoulder or butt
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
2. Spicy Pulled Pork
- 3-4 pounds pork shoulder or butt
- 1 can diced green chilies
- 1/2 cup hot sauce
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
3. Honey Garlic Pulled Pork
- 3-4 pounds pork shoulder or butt
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon ginger powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
4. Pineapple Pulled Pork
- 3-4 pounds pork shoulder or butt
- 1 can pineapple chunks, drained
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
5. Bourbon Maple Pulled Pork
- 3-4 pounds pork shoulder or butt
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
6. Carolina Style Pulled Pork
- 3-4 pounds pork shoulder or butt
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- 1 tablespoon mustard powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Pulled Pork Recipes
Step 1: Prepare the Pork
- Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder or butt and season with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Choose Your Cooking Method
- Slow Cooker: Place the seasoned pork in the slow cooker and add the desired ingredients for your chosen recipe. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 300°F. Place the seasoned pork in a roasting pan and add the desired ingredients for your chosen recipe. Cover with foil and roast for 4-5 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Smoker: Preheat your smoker to 225°F. Place the seasoned pork in the smoker and cook for 6-8 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Instant Pot: Place the seasoned pork in the Instant Pot and add the desired ingredients for your chosen recipe. Cook on high pressure for 90 minutes, then allow the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes before quick releasing any remaining pressure.
Step 3: Shred the Pork
- Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the cooking liquid and shred it using two forks.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the pulled pork on buns with your favorite toppings, or use it as a filling for tacos, burritos, or sandwiches. Enjoy!
About the Main Ingredients
Pork Shoulder or Butt
Pork shoulder or butt is the ideal cut of meat for pulled pork because it becomes tender and flavorful when cooked low and slow. It’s also relatively inexpensive, making it a great option for feeding a crowd.
BBQ Sauce
BBQ sauce adds flavor and moisture to the pulled pork. Choose your favorite store-bought sauce or make your own for a personalized touch.
Spices and Seasonings
Spices like paprika, garlic powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper add depth of flavor to the pulled pork. Adjust the amount of spice according to your preference.
Vinegar and Acidic Ingredients
Vinegar, apple cider vinegar, and other acidic ingredients help tenderize the meat and balance the richness of the pork. They also add a tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Sweeteners
Brown sugar, honey, maple syrup, and ketchup add sweetness to the pulled pork, balancing the savory and spicy flavors. Adjust the amount of sweetener to suit your taste.
These six delicious pulled pork recipes are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for an easy weeknight meal, these recipes are sure to impress.
