Making pulled pork in a crockpot with barbecue sauce is a straightforward process that results in tender, flavorful meat. Here's a general guide:
1. Prepare the Pork:
- Start with a 3-4 pound boneless pork shoulder or pork butt roast. Some recipes suggest trimming excess fat, while others say it's not necessary as the fat helps keep the meat moist.
2. Season the Pork:
- Create a dry rub using a combination of spices. Common spices include onion powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Other recipes might use cumin, paprika, and red pepper. Generously rub the seasoning all over the pork shoulder.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
- In a separate bowl, combine your favorite barbecue sauce with other liquids and seasonings.
- Popular additions include apple cider vinegar, which adds tanginess and helps cut through the richness of the pork, and chicken broth for moisture and flavor.
- Some recipes also incorporate brown sugar for sweetness, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, chopped onion, and crushed garlic.
4. Assemble in the Crockpot:
- You can use a Crock-Pot liner for easier cleanup.
- Place the seasoned pork shoulder in the slow cooker.
- Pour the barbecue sauce mixture over the meat, ensuring it's well-covered.
- Some recipes suggest adding a layer of thinly sliced onions and bell peppers to the bottom of the slow cooker before adding the pork.
5. Cook:
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 7-10 hours, or on high for 3-5 hours, until the pork is very tender and easily shreds with a fork. The internal temperature of the pork should reach around 195-205 degrees Fahrenheit.
6. Shred and Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. This can be done directly in the slow cooker or on a cutting board.
- If there's too much liquid in the pot, you can drain some before returning the shredded pork.
- Stir the shredded pork back into the remaining juices and barbecue sauce in the slow cooker to coat it evenly.
- Add more barbecue sauce if desired.
You can serve your pulled pork on hamburger buns for sandwiches, over rice, or on its own.
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