shredded barbecue pork recipe
The Best shredded barbecue pork recipe
I’ve been making shredded barbecue pork for my family for years, and it’s always a hit. The dish originated in the southern United States, where it was popularized by pitmasters who would slow-cook pork shoulders over low heat for hours.
This process breaks down the connective tissue in the meat, making it tender and easy to shred. The resulting flavor is a perfect balance of sweet and tangy, with a depth that’s hard to find in store-bought barbecue sauces.
I love this recipe because it’s incredibly versatile – we can serve it at family gatherings, potlucks, or even just as a weeknight dinner. My kids adore helping me make it, and they always get excited when they see the pork being pulled apart with two forks.
It’s a true comfort food that never fails to put a smile on our faces. Plus, with its high protein content and low fat levels, I feel good about serving it to my family on a regular basis.
The key to this recipe is cooking the pork low and slow, which allows the flavors to penetrate deep into the meat. I use a mixture of brown sugar, smoked paprika, and chili powder to give the pork its signature flavor.
Once it’s cooked through, I let it rest for 10-15 minutes before shredding it with two forks. The result is a tender, juicy texture that’s simply irresistible.
Slow Cooker Shredded Barbecue Pork
This tender, slow-cooked pork shoulder is infused with a rich, smoky barbecue sauce. Perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or as a main dish.
🥘Ingredients
For the Pork
For the Barbecue Sauce
👨🍳Directions
🔧Equipment
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Shredded barbecue pork is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on any occasion. It’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or even a cozy dinner at home.
It can be served with a variety of sides, making it easy to customize for any crowd. Leftovers can be easily reheated and are just as delicious the next day.
I often store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze portions for later use. This dish is always a hit and works well for any occasion.
It’s a hearty, comforting meal that everyone in the family will love.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Shredded Barbecue Pork
Q: What type of pork should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using a boneless pork shoulder for this recipe. It’s relatively inexpensive and has plenty of connective tissue that will break down during cooking.
Q: Can I use a different type of barbecue sauce?
While you can experiment with different sauces, I highly recommend sticking with a traditional Kansas City-style BBQ sauce for this recipe. It provides the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors that complement the pork perfectly.
Q: How long does it take to cook the pork?
The cooking time will depend on your slow cooker or oven temperature. Generally speaking, you’re looking at 8-10 hours on low or 4-6 hours on high.
Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes! In fact, the flavors will meld together even better if you let it sit overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Q: What are some good sides to serve with this recipe?
I recommend serving this with some crusty bread or cornbread for sopping up all those delicious juices. Coleslaw or baked beans also make great side dishes that complement the rich flavors of the pork.
