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Tender Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sandwiches

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A simple and delicious slow cooker pulled pork recipe that yields tender, juicy pork perfect for sandwiches. Ideal for casual dinners, BBQs, and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 to 4 pounds pork shoulder (pork butt), trimmed of excess fat but not too lean
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt (kosher or sea salt preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce (medium-sweet variety recommended)
  • 8 hamburger buns, preferably soft but sturdy
  • Optional toppings: coleslaw, pickles, sliced onions, cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. Rinse the pork shoulder and pat dry with paper towels. Trim any thick chunks of fat, leaving some for moisture and flavor (about 5 minutes).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
  3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, pressing it in to cover every inch (about 5 minutes).
  4. Place the rubbed pork shoulder into the slow cooker. Pour apple cider vinegar and Worcestershire sauce around the meat, avoiding pouring directly over the rub.
  5. Cover and cook on LOW for 8 to 10 hours, or on HIGH for 5 to 6 hours for a quicker option.
  6. Check for doneness when the pork is fork-tender and shreds easily. Use two forks or meat claws to shred the pork in the slow cooker pot.
  7. Stir in the barbecue sauce gently into the shredded pork. Let it warm on low for 10-15 minutes to absorb flavors. Add more sauce if desired.
  8. Toast the hamburger buns lightly if preferred. Prepare optional toppings such as coleslaw, pickles, or sliced onions.
  9. Assemble sandwiches by piling pulled pork onto buns and adding desired toppings. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

If pork dries out during cooking, add ¼ cup water or broth halfway through. Let pork rest 10 minutes after shredding to redistribute juices. Toast buns lightly to avoid sogginess. Use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps for gluten-free option. Barbecue sauce should be added near the end to keep meat moist.

Nutrition

Keywords: pulled pork, slow cooker, crockpot, barbecue, sandwiches, pork shoulder, easy recipe, comfort food

Find it online: https://sparklechew.com/tender-slow-cooker-pulled-pork-sandwiches-easy-recipe-for-perfect-pulled-pork-sandwiches/