BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Pulled pork sandwiches have gained immense popularity across the United States and beyond, becoming a beloved staple at barbecues, family gatherings, and casual dining experiences. Their appeal lies not only in the rich flavors but also in the comforting, satisfying nature of the dish. The tender, smoky pork, paired with a tangy BBQ sauce and often topped with crunchy coleslaw, creates a perfect balance of textures and tastes. Whether you're hosting a summer cookout or simply enjoying a cozy meal at home, smoky BBQ pulled pork sandwiches are an excellent choice that never fails to impress.

Discover the mouthwatering world of smoky BBQ pulled pork sandwiches, a cherished favorite at gatherings and barbecues. This dish features tender, smoky pork paired with tangy homemade BBQ sauce and crunchy coleslaw, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Learn to make your own spice rub and sauce while mastering cooking methods like slow cooking or oven roasting. Ideal for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy family meal, this irresistible recipe is sure to become a staple at your table.

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Ingredients

3-4 pounds pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 tablespoon paprika

1 tablespoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon onion powder

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)

1 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon salt

1 cup apple cider vinegar

1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice, homemade or store-bought)

8 sandwich buns (preferably brioche)

1 cup coleslaw (for topping)

Pickles (optional, for serving)

Instructions

Prepare the Rub: In a bowl, mix together brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. This will be your spice rub.

Season the Pork: Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork, ensuring it's well coated. For best flavor, cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight if time allows.

Cook the Pork: You can cook the pork in a slow cooker or an oven.

- Slow Cooker: Place the seasoned pork shoulder in the slow cooker. Pour apple cider vinegar over the top, cover, and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is tender and falls apart easily.

- Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the pork in a roasting pan or Dutch oven, add the apple cider vinegar, cover tightly with foil or a lid, and cook for about 4-5 hours.

Shred the Pork: Once cooked, remove the pork shoulder from the cooker/oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes. Shred the pork using two forks, discarding any large pieces of fat.

Mix with BBQ Sauce: In a bowl, combine the shredded pork with your chosen BBQ sauce, mixing well to coat.

Assemble the Sandwiches: Toast the sandwich buns if desired. Generously pile the pulled pork onto the bottom half of each bun. Top with coleslaw and add pickles if desired. Place the other half of the bun on top.

Serve and Enjoy: Serve the sandwiches warm, alongside extra BBQ sauce for drizzling, and enjoy!

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 8-10 hours (mostly hands-off) | Servings: 8