BBQ Pulled Pork Recipe: A Mouthwatering Classic

BBQ pulled pork is a staple in American cuisine, offering tender, juicy meat infused with smoky, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors. Whether you're making it for a backyard barbecue, a family gathering, or simply craving some comfort food, this slow-cooked dish is sure to satisfy. Follow this step-by-step guide to create the ultimate BBQ pulled pork.

Ingredients

For the Pork:

• 4-5 lb pork shoulder (also known as Boston butt)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

Dry Rub:

• 2 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tbsp smoked paprika

• 1 tbsp salt

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp ground mustard

• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

For Cooking:

• 1 cup apple cider vinegar

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)

For Serving:

• Hamburger buns or sandwich rolls

• Coleslaw (optional but recommended)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork Shoulder

Start by patting the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. Rub the olive oil all over the meat to help the seasoning adhere. In a small bowl, mix together all the dry rub ingredients. Generously coat the pork shoulder with the spice mixture, making sure to cover all sides.

2. Cooking Methods

Slow Cooker (Recommended for Ease):

• Place the seasoned pork shoulder in a slow cooker.

• Add apple cider vinegar, chicken broth, and Worcestershire sauce.

• Cover and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or HIGH for 5-6 hours, until the meat is fork-tender and easily pulls apart.

Oven (For a More Caramelized Finish):

• Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).

• Place the pork in a roasting pan and pour the liquid ingredients around it.

• Cover tightly with aluminum foil and cook for 4-5 hours, basting occasionally.

• Remove foil and cook for an additional 30-45 minutes to develop a crispy outer layer.

Smoker (For Authentic BBQ Flavor):

• Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C) using hickory or applewood chips.

• Smoke the pork shoulder for 10-12 hours until the internal temperature reaches 195-205°F (90-96°C).

• Wrap in foil during the last 2-3 hours to retain moisture.

3. Shred the Pork

Once the pork is fully cooked and tender, transfer it to a large cutting board or bowl. Use two forks to shred the meat, discarding any large pieces of fat. Pour the cooking juices over the shredded pork to keep it moist and flavorful.

4. Add BBQ Sauce

Mix in your favorite BBQ sauce to taste. If you prefer a tangier taste, add extra apple cider vinegar. For more sweetness, a little honey or brown sugar can enhance the flavor.

5. Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the BBQ pulled pork on soft hamburger buns, topped with coleslaw for extra crunch. Pair with classic BBQ sides like baked beans, mac and cheese, or cornbread for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best BBQ Pulled Pork

• Use the right cut: Pork shoulder (Boston butt) is best because of its fat content, which keeps the meat juicy during long cooking times.

• Low and slow is key: Cooking at a low temperature over a long period ensures tender, pull-apart meat.

• Let it rest: After cooking, allow the pork to rest for at least 15-20 minutes before shredding to lock in juices.

BBQ pulled pork is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to prepare and incredibly flavorful. Whether you cook it in a slow cooker, oven, or smoker, this recipe will give you a delicious, tender, and smoky pulled pork that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!