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Easy Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

A close-up of tender, shredded Slow Cooker Pulled Pork generously coated in dark barbecue sauce on a white plate.
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Make tender, flavorful pulled pork using your slow cooker. This set and forget recipe is perfect for BBQ sandwiches or meal prepping.

Ingredients

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  • 4 lb pork shoulder (Boston butt)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 cup your favorite BBQ sauce (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Trim any large pieces of excess fat from the pork shoulder.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to create the dry rub.
  3. Rub the spice mixture evenly over all surfaces of the pork shoulder.
  4. Place the seasoned pork shoulder in the basin of your slow cooker.
  5. Pour the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce around the pork. Do not pour directly over the top.
  6. Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 8 to 10 hours, or on HIGH for 4 to 5 hours, until the pork is very tender and shreds easily with a fork.
  7. Carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a large cutting board or baking sheet. Discard any large pieces of fat.
  8. Use two forks to shred the pork completely.
  9. Skim any excess fat from the liquid remaining in the slow cooker.
  10. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and toss it with about 1/4 cup of the cooking liquid and 1/4 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce. Stir to coat.
  11. Cook on the WARM setting for another 15 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
  12. Serve hot on buns with extra BBQ sauce.

Notes

  • For the best texture, cook the pork on LOW. This allows the connective tissue to break down slowly.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the cooking liquid and simmer it on the stovetop until it reduces by half before mixing it back with the shredded meat.
  • This pulled pork freezes well. Cool completely, then store in airtight containers for up to three months.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbyjade.com/slow-cooker-pulled-pork/