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Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

A close-up of shredded, saucy pioneer woman slow cooker pulled pork piled high on a white plate.

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Make tender, shreddable pulled pork in your slow cooker for easy sandwiches or serving a crowd.

Ingredients

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  • 4 lb pork shoulder (Boston butt), trimmed
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 cup chicken broth or apple cider vinegar
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce (for finishing)

Instructions

  1. Mix brown sugar, paprika, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and cayenne pepper in a small bowl to create the spice rub.
  2. Rub the spice mixture evenly over the entire surface of the pork shoulder.
  3. Place the seasoned pork shoulder in the slow cooker.
  4. Pour the chicken broth or apple cider vinegar around the pork.
  5. Cook on low for 8 to 10 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours, until the pork is very tender.
  6. Remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a large cutting board.
  7. Shred the pork using two forks. Discard any large pieces of fat.
  8. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker.
  9. Stir in the barbecue sauce until the meat is coated.
  10. Cook on warm for 15 to 30 minutes to allow the sauce to heat through and absorb.

Notes

  • For best flavor, make this recipe a day ahead and refrigerate the shredded pork in its cooking liquid or sauce. Reheat slowly.
  • Serve the pulled pork on hamburger buns topped with creamy coleslaw for a classic sandwich.
  • This meat freezes well. Cool completely before storing in freezer-safe bags or containers.

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