Pulled pork with BBQ sauce is a dish that takes me back to the heart of Midwestern summers, where family gatherings were incomplete without the aroma of slow-cooked meats wafting through the air. This recipe is a tribute to those times, capturing the essence of community and comfort. It's a dish that brings people together, perfect for a casual get-together or a hearty family meal. The slow cooker does all the hard work, transforming a humble pork shoulder into tender, flavorful shreds that soak up the tangy sweetness of barbecue sauce. It's a reminder of simpler times, when meals were made with love and shared with those who mattered most.
Pulled pork pairs beautifully with classic sides like creamy coleslaw, buttery cornbread, or a fresh potato salad. For a true Midwestern feast, serve it alongside baked beans and pickles. If you're feeling adventurous, try it on a soft bun with a slice of cheddar cheese and a dollop of coleslaw right on top. Don't forget a tall glass of sweet tea or lemonade to wash it all down.
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Slow Cooker Pulled Pork with BBQ Sauce
Servings: 8
Ingredients
1 (4-5 pound) pork shoulder or pork butt
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup barbecue sauce, plus more for serving
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup barbecue sauce, plus more for serving
Directions
1. In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, ensuring it's evenly coated.
3. Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker and pour the chicken broth around it.
4. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
5. Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
6. Stir in 1 cup of barbecue sauce, mixing well to coat the pork.
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7. Serve the pulled pork on buns with extra barbecue sauce on the side.
Variations & Tips
For a spicier kick, add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the spice rub. You can also experiment with different types of barbecue sauce, such as a smoky chipotle or a tangy mustard-based sauce. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, add a tablespoon of brown sugar to the spice rub. For a touch of smokiness, try adding a few drops of liquid smoke to the broth before cooking.