Description
Juicy Pulled Pork Sandwich
Experience a taste explosion with this pulled pork sandwich! Smoky, saucy, and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
1 kg pork shoulder
1 cup barbecue sauce
1 onion (diced)
2 tsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp brown sugar
4 brioche buns
Salt and pepper
Steps:
Season pork with paprika, brown sugar, salt, and pepper.
Add pork and onions to a slow cooker with ½ cup barbecue sauce. Cook on low for 8 hours.
Shred pork, mix with remaining barbecue sauce, and simmer.
Toast buns, stack with pork, and serve hot.
Pair with fries or a side salad for a complete meal!
Tag your BBQ squad and get cooking!
#UltimatePulledPork
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect pulled pork every time.
- Prep the Pork: Pat the 1 kg pork shoulder dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, brown sugar, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tsp black pepper. Rub this mixture all over the pork, ensuring an even coat.
- Layer the Slow Cooker: Place the diced onion in the bottom of your slow cooker. Pour in ½ cup of barbecue sauce and ¼ cup of water, stirring to combine. Place the seasoned pork shoulder on top of the onion mixture.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on the LOW setting for 8 hours. Do not open the lid during cooking. The pork is done when it is fork-tender and easily shreds.
- Shred and Sauce: Transfer the pork to a large bowl, discarding any large fat pieces. Use two forks to shred the meat. Skim excess fat from the juices in the slow cooker, then add the shredded pork back in along with the remaining ½ cup of barbecue sauce. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer and Serve: Let the sauced pork simmer on the WARM or LOW setting for an additional 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Meanwhile, lightly toast the brioche buns.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your sandwich with these serving ideas. For a classic BBQ plate, serve with crispy french fries, tangy coleslaw, and dill pickle spears. For a lighter meal, pair with a fresh garden salad or grilled corn on the cob. Consider topping the sandwich itself with a spoonful of creamy coleslaw, sliced pickles, or even a sprinkle of crispy fried onions for added texture.
How-to Summary
Season a pork shoulder with a paprika-sugar rub. Slow cook with onions and half the BBQ sauce for 8 hours on low. Shred the meat, mix with the remaining sauce, and simmer briefly. Serve on toasted brioche buns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cook this faster on high?
Yes, you can cook on HIGH for 4-5 hours, but the LOW setting yields more tender, shreddable meat.
What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
Use a heavy Dutch oven with a tight-fitting lid. Cook in a preheated oven at 150°C (300°F) for about 4-5 hours until tender.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Cook and shred the pork, then store it in its juices in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the slow cooker.
What cut of pork can I substitute?
Pork butt (Boston butt) is virtually identical to pork shoulder and is an excellent substitute. Avoid lean cuts like pork loin.
How can I make the sauce less sweet?
Use a vinegar-based Carolina-style BBQ sauce, or add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to your existing sauce to cut the sweetness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Choosing the Wrong Cut: Using a lean cut like pork tenderloin will result in dry, tough meat. Stick with well-marbled pork shoulder or butt.
- Opening the Lid: Resist the urge to check the pork. Each time you open the slow cooker, you release heat and steam, significantly extending the cooking time.
- Over-Saucing During Cooking: Adding all the sauce at the beginning can cause it to break down and become overly sweet. Adding half at the end preserves its flavor and texture.
- Not Toasting the Bun: A soft bun will quickly become soggy under the weight of the juicy pork. Toasting creates a crucial moisture barrier.
Conclusion
This pulled pork sandwich recipe proves that incredible, crowd-pleasing meals don’t have to be complicated. The magic of the slow cooker transforms simple ingredients into something spectacular—tender, smoky, and packed with flavor. It’s the ultimate make-ahead dish for gatherings, game days, or a satisfying family dinner. Once you master this foundational recipe, feel free to experiment with different rubs, sauces, and toppings to make it your own. Fire up that slow cooker and get ready for the compliments to roll in!
