The sweet and tangy flavors of BBQ pulled pork sandwiches – a classic American dish that never fails to satisfy our cravings. While traditional methods of cooking pulled pork involve hours of tending to a smoker or grill, we’re about to let you in on a little secret: you can achieve the same tender, juicy results with minimal effort using a crockpot. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of making mouth-watering BBQ pulled pork sandwiches in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Choosing the Right Cut of Meat
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to select the right cut of meat. For pulled pork, you’ll want to opt for a tougher cut that’s rich in connective tissue, as this will break down beautifully during the slow-cooking process. The most popular cuts for pulled pork include:
- Pork shoulder (also known as a Boston butt)
- Pork butt (a slightly leaner cut than the pork shoulder)
- Picnic shoulder (a smaller, more triangular cut)
When selecting your meat, look for a cut that’s around 2-3 pounds in weight. This will ensure that you have enough meat for a decent-sized batch of pulled pork sandwiches.
Preparing the Meat for Cooking
Once you’ve chosen your cut of meat, it’s time to prepare it for cooking. Start by rinsing the meat under cold water, then pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Next, season the meat liberally with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices. For a classic BBQ flavor, you can’t go wrong with a blend of paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
A Word on Rubs and Marinades
If you want to take your pulled pork to the next level, consider using a dry rub or marinade to add extra flavor. A dry rub is a blend of spices and herbs that’s applied directly to the meat, while a marinade is a liquid mixture that the meat is soaked in before cooking. Some popular ingredients for pulled pork rubs and marinades include:
- Brown sugar
- Smoked paprika
- Chipotle peppers
- Apple cider vinegar
Cooking the Pulled Pork in the Crockpot
Now that your meat is prepared, it’s time to cook it in the crockpot. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:
- 2-3 pound pork shoulder or butt
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (you can use more or less depending on your desired level of sauciness)
- 1/4 cup beer or stock (optional)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Place the meat in the crockpot and add the BBQ sauce, beer or stock, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, then cover the crockpot and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Shredding and Resting the Meat
After the cooking time has elapsed, remove the meat from the crockpot and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded meat to the crockpot and stir to combine with the juices. Let the meat rest for 10-15 minutes before serving, allowing the juices to redistribute and the meat to absorb all that delicious flavor.
A Word on BBQ Sauce
BBQ sauce is a crucial component of pulled pork sandwiches, adding a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the rich, meaty flavor of the pork. When choosing a BBQ sauce, look for a brand that’s low in sugar and high in flavor. Some popular BBQ sauce styles include:
- Kansas City-style (thick and sweet)
- Carolina-style (vinegar-based and tangy)
- Texas-style (thin and beefy)
Assembling the Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Now that your pulled pork is cooked and shredded, it’s time to assemble the sandwiches. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:
- 4 hamburger buns
- 1 cup pulled pork
- 1/4 cup coleslaw (optional)
- 1/4 cup pickles (optional)
- 1 tablespoon BBQ sauce (optional)
Split the hamburger buns in half and toast them lightly. Spoon the pulled pork onto the buns, followed by a dollop of coleslaw and a few slices of pickle. Drizzle with BBQ sauce, if desired.
Customizing Your Pulled Pork Sandwiches
The beauty of pulled pork sandwiches lies in their customizability. Here are a few ideas for taking your sandwiches to the next level:
- Add some crispy onions or jalapeños for a spicy kick
- Top with a slice of melted cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- Use a different type of bread, such as a baguette or ciabatta
- Add some sliced veggies, such as cucumbers or bell peppers
A Word on Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a classic topping for pulled pork sandwiches, adding a cool and creamy contrast to the rich, meaty flavor of the pork. When choosing a coleslaw, look for a brand that’s low in sugar and high in flavor. Some popular coleslaw styles include:
- Creamy coleslaw (made with mayonnaise and sour cream)
- Vinegar-based coleslaw (made with apple cider vinegar and a touch of sugar)
- Broccoli slaw (made with broccoli, mayonnaise, and a touch of vinegar)
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to keep in mind when making BBQ pulled pork sandwiches in the crockpot:
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the meat is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 190°F.
- Experiment with different types of wood chips or chunks to add a smoky flavor to your pulled pork.
- Add some diced onions or bell peppers to the crockpot for added flavor.
- Use a slow cooker liner to make cleanup a breeze.
By following these tips and variations, you’ll be well on your way to creating delicious BBQ pulled pork sandwiches that are sure to impress your friends and family.
Conclusion
Making BBQ pulled pork sandwiches in the crockpot is a simple and delicious way to enjoy a classic American dish. By following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll be able to create tender, juicy pulled pork that’s perfect for sandwiches, salads, and more. So go ahead, give it a try, and experience the rich, meaty flavor of slow-cooked pulled pork for yourself.
What is the ideal cut of meat for BBQ pulled pork sandwiches?
The ideal cut of meat for BBQ pulled pork sandwiches is a pork shoulder or Boston butt. This cut is perfect for slow-cooking because it is tender, juicy, and has a good amount of fat, which helps to keep the meat moist and flavorful. You can choose either a boneless or bone-in pork shoulder, but boneless is often preferred for easier shredding.
When selecting a pork shoulder, look for one that is around 2-3 pounds in size. This will yield enough meat for 4-6 sandwiches, depending on serving size. You can also use a larger or smaller pork shoulder, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How long does it take to cook BBQ pulled pork in a crockpot?
The cooking time for BBQ pulled pork in a crockpot can vary depending on the size of the pork shoulder and the desired level of tenderness. Generally, it takes around 8-10 hours on low heat or 4-6 hours on high heat to cook a 2-3 pound pork shoulder. You can cook it on low heat overnight and wake up to tender, juicy pork in the morning.
It’s essential to check the pork for tenderness after 8 hours of cooking. If it’s not tender enough, cover the crockpot and cook for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour. You can also use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 190°F for tender, fall-apart meat.
What type of BBQ sauce is best for pulled pork sandwiches?
The type of BBQ sauce to use for pulled pork sandwiches is a matter of personal preference. You can use a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, a spicy BBQ sauce, or a vinegar-based BBQ sauce. Some popular BBQ sauce options include Kansas City-style, Carolina-style, and Alabama-style.
When choosing a BBQ sauce, consider the flavor profile you want to achieve. If you prefer a sweeter pulled pork, use a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce. If you prefer a tangier pulled pork, use a vinegar-based BBQ sauce. You can also mix and match different BBQ sauces to create a unique flavor profile.
Can I add other ingredients to the crockpot with the pork shoulder?
Yes, you can add other ingredients to the crockpot with the pork shoulder to enhance the flavor and texture of the pulled pork. Some popular ingredients to add include onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and potatoes. You can also add a few tablespoons of brown sugar, smoked paprika, or chili powder to give the pork a boost of flavor.
When adding other ingredients, make sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them to the crockpot with the pork shoulder. You can also add a few cups of chicken or beef broth to the crockpot to keep the pork moist and add extra flavor.
How do I shred the cooked pork shoulder?
To shred the cooked pork shoulder, use two forks to pull the meat apart into tender, juicy strands. You can also use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment or a meat shredder to shred the pork. If the pork is not tender enough, you can cover the crockpot and cook for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour.
When shredding the pork, be gentle to avoid tearing the meat. You can also add a few tablespoons of BBQ sauce to the shredded pork to keep it moist and add extra flavor. Use the shredded pork immediately or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What are some popular toppings for BBQ pulled pork sandwiches?
Some popular toppings for BBQ pulled pork sandwiches include coleslaw, pickles, onions, and barbecue sauce. You can also add a few slices of bacon, a sprinkle of cheddar cheese, or a dollop of sour cream to give the sandwich extra flavor and texture.
When choosing toppings, consider the flavor profile you want to achieve. If you prefer a tangy pulled pork sandwich, add a few slices of pickle or a dollop of coleslaw. If you prefer a richer pulled pork sandwich, add a few slices of bacon or a sprinkle of cheddar cheese.
Can I make BBQ pulled pork sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes, you can make BBQ pulled pork sandwiches ahead of time. To do this, cook the pork shoulder in the crockpot and shred it according to the recipe. Then, store the shredded pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.
When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the shredded pork in the microwave or on the stovetop and assemble the sandwiches. You can also prepare the toppings ahead of time, such as coleslaw and pickles, and store them in the refrigerator until ready to use.