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Juicy BBQ shredded pork

Featured in Tender beef cooked to perfection.

A generous helping of pulled pork, cooked low and slow until tender and juicy. Smothered in BBQ sauce for a delicious flavor-packed dish.
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alicia in the kitchen
Updated on Thu, 13 Mar 2025 14:26:43 GMT
A platter of tender, shredded pork covered in BBQ sauce, served with a side of rolls and extra sauces. Pin it
A platter of tender, shredded pork covered in BBQ sauce, served with a side of rolls and extra sauces. | Tasteofsavor.com

Pulled pork stands as a beloved classic for family gatherings and social meals. The magic lies in the slow cooking process that transforms tough pork into tender, pull-apart meat. This recipe delivers rich barbecue flavors perfect for casual dining or more upscale presentations.

The Art of Perfect Pulled Pork

The cornerstone of exceptional pulled pork lies in its slow cooking method, which creates incredibly tender meat. A carefully balanced spice blend featuring smoked paprika, apple cider vinegar, and barbecue sauce creates an ideal harmony of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors.

Essential Ingredients

The foundation starts with a 3.3 lb pork shoulder. The aromatic base combines diced onion and four garlic cloves for depth. The signature sauce blends barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika. Cayenne pepper adds heat, while apple cider vinegar and chicken stock complete the braising liquid.

Step-by-Step Process

Season the meat thoroughly with spices before searing in a Dutch oven. Sauté the aromatics in the same pot, then add brown sugar to caramelize slightly. Pour in the vinegar, stock, and barbecue sauce mixture. Cook at 300°F for 4-5 hours, turning occasionally. The meat is ready when it shreds effortlessly with a fork.

Keys to Success

Select well-marbled pork shoulder for best results. Adjust the spice level to preference while maintaining flavor depth. Patience during the slow cooking process is essential. A fresh coleslaw provides the perfect crunchy contrast.

Une assiette de viande effilochée nappée de sauce barbecue, accompagnée de frites, de petits pains et de salade de chou. Pin it
Une assiette de viande effilochée nappée de sauce barbecue, accompagnée de frites, de petits pains et de salade de chou. | Tasteofsavor.com

Serving Suggestions

Serve pulled pork on soft brioche buns for classic sandwiches. Alternatively, pair with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or baked potatoes. Add freshness with crunchy coleslaw or homemade pickles to balance the rich meat.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What’s the best cut of pork to use?
Pork shoulder works great because it has enough fat to stay tender after long cooking. Pork butt is another good option.
→ Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! It’s even better if made a day in advance. Reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
→ How do I know when the pork is ready?
The meat should shred easily with a fork. If it’s still tough, let it cook another 30 minutes to an hour.
→ Can I substitute another meat?
You can try this with beef chuck or chicken thighs, but the cooking time will differ depending on the meat.
→ How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months in an airtight container.

BBQ shredded pork

This dish features shredded pork that's slow-cooked to perfection, covered in a smoky and savory BBQ sauce.

Prep Time
30 Minutes
Cook Time
300 Minutes
Total Time
330 Minutes
By: Alicia

Category: Beef

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 8 Servings (8 servings)

Dietary: Low-Carb, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

01 1 onion, thinly sliced.
02 4 cloves of garlic, minced.
03 1.5 kg pork shoulder.
04 250 ml BBQ sauce.
05 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard.
06 2 tablespoons brown sugar.
07 100 ml apple cider vinegar.
08 200 ml chicken broth.
09 1 teaspoon cayenne chili powder.
10 1 tablespoon smoked paprika.
11 Season with salt and pepper.
12 2 tablespoons olive oil.

Instructions

Step 01

Sprinkle seasoning on the pork and brown it in a Dutch oven for about 5 minutes on each side.

Step 02

Cook the onion and garlic, then mix in the spices, vinegar, and broth.

Step 03

Pour in the BBQ sauce, add the meat back, and bake it for 4-5 hours at 150°C.

Step 04

Pull apart the meat with forks and stir it into the sauce.

Notes

  1. Slow cooking is key to tender meat.
  2. The pork should easily shred with a fork when done.

Tools You'll Need

  • Oven-safe Dutch oven.
  • Forks for pulling apart the meat.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Mustard.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 450
  • Total Fat: 28 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 15 g
  • Protein: 42 g