Pulled pork is a popular dish for many people, and it's easy to understand why. It's tender, flavorful, and versatile. Whether you're making it for a BBQ, a family gathering, or just a simple weeknight dinner, pulled pork is always a crowd-pleaser. This recipe is perfect for those who want to make pulled pork without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 3-4 pound boneless pork shoulder - 1 tablespoon paprika - 1 tablespoon garlic powder - 1 tablespoon onion powder - 1 tablespoon brown sugar - 1 teaspoon salt - 1 teaspoon black pepper - 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar - 1/2 cup chicken stock - 1/2 cup barbecue sauce - Buns, for serving
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 325°F. 2. Combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. 3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to get it into all the crevices. 4. Place the pork shoulder in a large baking dish and pour the apple cider vinegar and chicken stock over it. 5. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 3-4 hours, or until the pork is tender and falls apart easily. 6. Remove the pork from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. 7. Shred the pork using two forks, discarding any fat or gristle. 8. Mix in the barbecue sauce and stir until the pork is coated. 9. Serve the pulled pork on buns, topped with additional barbecue sauce if desired.
Nutrition
This recipe yields approximately 8-10 servings. Each serving contains: - Calories: 350 - Total Fat: 18g - Saturated Fat: 6g - Cholesterol: 115mg - Sodium: 740mg - Total Carbohydrates: 12g - Dietary Fiber: 1g - Sugars: 9g - Protein: 33g
Variations
This basic recipe can be customized in many ways to suit your taste. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Spicy Pulled Pork
If you like a little heat, add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the spice rub. You can also mix in some diced jalapenos or serranos when you add the barbecue sauce.
Asian Pulled Pork
Instead of the traditional barbecue sauce, try mixing the pulled pork with hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and a little sesame oil. Top with sliced scallions and serve on bao buns for an Asian-inspired twist.
Pulled Pork Tacos
Serve the pulled pork on soft corn tortillas with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and crumbled queso fresco. Add a little salsa or guacamole for extra flavor.
Conclusion
Pulled pork is a delicious and easy dish that can be customized in many ways. This recipe is a great starting point, but feel free to experiment with different spices, sauces, and serving suggestions. Whether you're serving it at a party or just enjoying it for dinner, pulled pork is sure to be a hit.