This Pulled Pork Sandwich recipe delivers incredibly tender and flavorful pulled pork, perfect for a satisfying sandwich. The pork is slow-cooked to perfection, seasoned with a rich blend of spices, and combined with a tangy barbecue sauce. It’s an excellent choice for family gatherings or a weekend meal, requiring minimal hands-on effort.

Appliances and Special Utensils

Ingredients

  • 4-5 lb pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • Sandwich buns
  • Coleslaw (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Pork: In a mixing bowl, combine paprika, chili powder, cumin, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper. Rub this spice mixture all over the pork shoulder.

  2. Sear Pork: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork shoulder and sear on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside.

  3. Prepare Slow Cooker: Place the sliced onion and minced garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker.

  4. Deglaze: Pour chicken broth into the skillet, stirring to deglaze the bottom and incorporate any browned bits. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker.

  5. Combine Ingredients: Add barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar to the slow cooker. Stir to combine, then place the seared pork shoulder on top of the sauce mixture.

  6. Cook: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the pork is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork. The internal temperature should reach at least 190°F (88°C) (use a meat thermometer).

  7. Shred Pork: Remove the pork shoulder from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Use a large fork or meat claws to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.

  8. Combine: Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker, mixing it with the sauce. Let it sit in the sauce for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.

  9. Serve: Serve the pulled pork on sandwich buns, optionally topped with coleslaw. Enjoy your delectable Pulled Pork Sandwich!

This recipe ensures a delicious Pulled Pork Sandwich with tender, flavorful meat that’s perfect for any occasion.