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Tender Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Recipe for Easy Big Gatherings

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A tender, smoky, and juicy slow cooker BBQ pulled pork recipe perfect for feeding big gatherings with minimal prep and maximum flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 to 5 pounds pork shoulder (pork butt)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar (50 g)
  • 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar (60 ml)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 to 1 1/2 cups BBQ sauce (240 to 360 ml)

Instructions

  1. Trim any excessive fat from the pork shoulder, leaving a thin layer to keep it moist. Pat it dry with paper towels.
  2. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix well.
  3. Generously coat the pork shoulder with the spice mixture, pressing it into the meat on all sides.
  4. Place the seasoned pork shoulder into the slow cooker. Pour the apple cider vinegar and Worcestershire sauce around the meat (not directly on top).
  5. Cover and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours, or on high for 5 to 6 hours, until the pork easily pulls apart with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of about 195°F (90°C).
  6. Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks, discarding any large chunks of fat.
  7. Pour BBQ sauce over the shredded pork and gently toss to coat evenly. For a looser texture, mix in some cooking juices from the slow cooker as desired.
  8. Serve warm, either directly from the slow cooker on the warm setting or transferred to a serving dish.

Notes

For a crispy finish, broil shredded pork for 3-5 minutes before serving. Avoid lifting the slow cooker lid during cooking to maintain temperature. Let pork rest 10-15 minutes before shredding. Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness. Substitute pineapple juice for vinegar for a tropical twist. Check BBQ sauce and Worcestershire sauce for gluten-free options.

Nutrition

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