Slow Cooker Texas Pulled Pork

Pulled pork has become a beloved staple in Texas cuisine, celebrated for its rich, smoky flavor and succulent texture. This dish, which originated from traditional barbecue practices, has transcended regional boundaries to become a favorite at cookouts, family gatherings, and even upscale restaurants. What makes pulled pork so appealing is its versatility; it can be served in sandwiches, tacos, or simply on a plate with sides. The slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that is not only satisfying but also a crowd-pleaser.

Discover the irresistible flavors of Smoky Texan Delight Pulled Pork with this mouthwatering recipe! Perfect for cookouts, family dinners, or any gathering, this easy slow-cooker dish promises tender, juicy meat bursting with smoky goodness. The secret lies in a carefully crafted spice blend and a slow cook that melds flavors beautifully. Serve it in sandwiches, tacos, or with sides for a delightful meal. Impress your guests and enjoy a true Texas classic!

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Ingredients

4 pounds pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)

2 tablespoons smoked paprika

1 tablespoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon onion powder

2 teaspoons ground cumin

2 teaspoons kosher salt

1 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)

1 cup beef broth

1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)

1 medium onion, sliced

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Optional: buns for serving, coleslaw for topping, additional barbecue sauce for drizzling

Instructions

Prepare the Pork: Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps the seasonings stick better.

Mix the Spices: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. This spice blend gives the pork its rich, smoky flavor.

Rub the Mixture: Generously rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, ensuring it's well-coated. For the best flavor, let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight if time permits.

Layer the Slow Cooker: Place the sliced onion and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker to create a flavorful base.

Add Pork and Liquid: Position the seasoned pork shoulder on top of the onions and garlic. In a separate bowl, mix the beef broth and apple cider vinegar, then pour it around (not over) the pork. This will keep the spices intact during cooking.

Slow Cook: Cover and set your slow cooker to low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreddable.

Shred the Pork: Once cooked, carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a large cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.

Mix with BBQ Sauce: Return the shredded meat to the slow cooker and mix it with the barbecue sauce. Stir to combine well and let it heat through for an additional 15-30 minutes on low.

Serve: Serve the pulled pork on soft buns, topped with coleslaw and an extra drizzle of barbecue sauce if desired. Enjoy your Texas pulled pork feast!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 8-10 hours | 8 servings