Pulled Pork with BBQ Sauce
Try this Pulled Pork with BBQ Sauce recipe
Try this Pulled Pork with BBQ Sauce recipe
- Carbohydrate 12.2300137697001 g
- Cholesterol 1136 mg
- Fat 289.143301251787 g
- Fiber 4.45301258866344 g
- Protein 277.679405004773 g
- Saturated Fat 100.068985875292 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (1619g)
- Sodium 1045.5147500089 mg
- Sugar 7.77700118103664 g
- Trans Fat 29.287523750206 g
- Calories 3834 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat your slow cooker and set to high.
- Mix all the spices in a bowl.
- Score the skin of the pork by making cuts about an inch apart from one or both directions (and creating square cuts).
- Rub the spices into the pork.
- Peel and roughly slice the onion.
- Place in the preheated slow cooker and add bay leaves.
- Place the pork on top of the onion and cover with a lid.
- Cook on "high" for 5-6 hours, or on "low" 8-10 hours (exact time depends on the slow cooker).
- When done, open the lid and let the hot steam out.
- To make the pork crispy, preheat the oven to 200 C / 400 F.
- Using tongs or two forks, place the cooked pork on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Cover the pork with the BBQ sauce and place in the oven.
- Cook for 30-40 minutes.
- Alternatively, instead of using the oven, place back in the slow cooker and cook covered for about an hour.
- Meanwhile, prepare the sauce. Pour the liquid with the cooked onions and bay leaves into a blender.
- Pulse until smooth and set aside.
- When the pork is cooked and crispy, remove from the oven and place in a bowl.
- Using two forks, shred the meat into smaller pieces.
- Pour in the sauce from the blender and combine well.
- Serve immediately with roasted vegetables or with Keto Buns and Easy Russian Slaw. Otherwise, let it cool down and keep refrigerated for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it in batches for up to 3 months.
My Go-To Comfort Food: Pulled Pork with BBQ Sauce
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook delicious, satisfying meals can feel like a Herculean task. Between work deadlines, school pick-ups, and all the other demands of daily life, whipping up something from scratch often feels impossible. But then there are those moments, those blessed evenings when the aroma of slow-cooked perfection fills the kitchen, and the family gathers around a table laden with a meal that's both heartwarming and incredibly flavorful. This pulled pork recipe is one of those moments. It's the epitome of comfort food, a dish that’s surprisingly simple to make despite its impressive taste. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility and adaptability. I've perfected it over the years, tweaking it based on my family's preferences and what's readily available in my pantry.
The key to this recipe is the slow cooker. It's my secret weapon in the kitchen. I throw everything in the morning before heading out the door, and by the time I return, the house is filled with the delicious scent of slow-cooked pork. The long, slow cooking process tenderizes the pork shoulder, resulting in that melt-in-your-mouth texture that everyone loves. The homemade BBQ sauce is the perfect complement, adding a touch of sweetness and smokiness that elevates the entire dish.
This recipe is my lifesaver. It's great for weeknight dinners when time is short. I often double the recipe, storing half in the freezer for a quick and easy meal on a busier week. It's also a crowd-pleaser for gatherings. It's adaptable, too. You can serve it on buns for a classic pulled pork sandwich, or over rice for a heartier meal. I've even served it on top of salads for a lighter option. The possibilities are endless!
Beyond the Recipe: Making Memories Around the Table
Cooking isn't just about the food; it's about creating memories. This pulled pork recipe has become a staple in our family, a tradition that brings us all together. The aroma alone evokes feelings of warmth and togetherness, reminding me of cozy nights spent around the dining table, sharing stories and laughter. My children love helping me shred the pork; it’s a fun family activity that adds to the enjoyment. And honestly, there's nothing quite like seeing their faces light up when they take their first bite.
This dish is more than just a recipe; it's a testament to the power of simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary. It’s a reminder that even amidst the chaos of everyday life, there’s always time to create something delicious and meaningful. So, gather your family, roll up your sleeves, and let the aroma of slow-cooked pulled pork fill your home. It’s a taste of comfort, a taste of home, and a taste of love.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
The beauty of pulled pork lies in its adaptability. While I enjoy it classic style, with a side of roasted vegetables, here are a few other ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
- Pulled Pork Sliders: Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, mini-sliders offer a fun and convenient way to serve this delicious meat.
- Pulled Pork Tacos: For a fun twist, serve the pulled pork in warm tortillas with your favorite taco toppings.
- Pulled Pork Pizza: Use the pulled pork as a topping for your homemade or store-bought pizza. A unique and delicious way to enjoy this dish!
- Pulled Pork Quesadillas: Add a layer of pulled pork to your favorite quesadillas for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
- Pulled Pork Nachos: Pile high with pulled pork, cheese, and all your favorite nacho toppings for a fun and shareable snack.
Tips and Tricks for Pulled Pork Perfection
- Choosing the Right Pork Shoulder: A bone-in pork shoulder will impart more flavor to your pulled pork. However, a boneless shoulder works just as well and is easier to shred.
- Don't Overcrowd the Slow Cooker: If you're cooking a large batch of pulled pork, you may need to use two slow cookers to ensure even cooking.
- Adjusting the Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the amount of spices to your liking. For a spicier pulled pork, add more cayenne pepper or chili powder.
- Making Ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
I hope this recipe brings you as much joy and comfort as it has brought to my family. It’s a dish that’s easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Happy cooking!
