Pulled pork sandwiches are a classic American dish that’s perfect for casual gatherings, picnics, and barbecues. The tender, juicy pork, the tangy barbecue sauce, and the soft, fluffy bun all come together to create a flavor combination that’s hard to resist. And the best part? You can make it all happen with minimal effort using a slow cooker. In this article, we’ll show you how to make mouth-watering pulled pork sandwiches in a slow cooker, complete with a few secret tips and tricks to take your dish to the next level.
Choosing the Right Cut of Meat
When it comes to making pulled pork sandwiches, the type of meat you use is crucial. You want a cut that’s tender, juicy, and has a good balance of fat and lean meat. The most popular cuts for pulled pork are:
Pork Shoulder
Also known as a Boston butt or pork butt, this cut is taken from the upper portion of the pig’s front leg. It’s a tougher cut of meat, but it’s perfect for slow cooking because it becomes tender and falls apart easily.
Pork Loin
This cut is taken from the back of the pig and is leaner than the pork shoulder. It’s still a great option for pulled pork, but it might not be as tender as the pork shoulder.
Preparing the Meat
Before you start cooking, you’ll need to prepare the meat. Here’s what you need to do:
Trimming the Fat
If your pork shoulder or loin has a thick layer of fat on the surface, you’ll want to trim it off. This will help the meat cook more evenly and prevent it from becoming too greasy.
Seasoning the Meat
Rub the meat all over with a mixture of salt, pepper, and your favorite spices. You can use a store-bought spice blend or create your own using paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
Cooking the Meat in a Slow Cooker
Now it’s time to cook the meat. Here’s what you need to do:
Adding the Meat to the Slow Cooker
Place the meat in the slow cooker and add your favorite barbecue sauce. You can use a store-bought sauce or make your own using ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and spices.
Cooking the Meat
Cook the meat on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. You can also cook it overnight and wake up to tender, juicy meat.
Shredding the Meat
Once the meat is cooked, it’s time to shred it. You can use two forks to pull the meat apart, or you can use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment to shred it quickly and easily.
Assembling the Sandwiches
Now it’s time to assemble the sandwiches. Here’s what you need to do:
Adding the Meat to the Buns
Split the buns in half and add a generous helping of shredded meat. You can also add some barbecue sauce, coleslaw, and pickles to give it some extra flavor.
Adding the Toppings
Add your favorite toppings, such as diced onions, diced bell peppers, and sliced jalapeños.
Tips and Tricks
Here are a few tips and tricks to take your pulled pork sandwiches to the next level:
Using a Meat Thermometer
A meat thermometer is a must-have when cooking pulled pork. It ensures that the meat is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 190°F.
Adding Wood Chips
Adding wood chips to the slow cooker can give the meat a smoky flavor. You can use hickory, apple, or cherry wood chips to add a unique flavor to your pulled pork.
Using a Slow Cooker with a Temperature Control
A slow cooker with a temperature control allows you to cook the meat at a precise temperature. This ensures that the meat is cooked evenly and prevents it from becoming too dry or too greasy.
Conclusion
Making pulled pork sandwiches in a slow cooker is a deliciously easy recipe that’s perfect for casual gatherings, picnics, and barbecues. By following these simple steps and using a few secret tips and tricks, you can create a dish that’s sure to impress your friends and family. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the tender, juicy goodness of slow-cooked pulled pork sandwiches.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pork shoulder or loin | 2 pounds |
| Barbecue sauce | 1 cup |
| Salt | 1 tablespoon |
| Pepper | 1 tablespoon |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Onion powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Cayenne pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Buns | 4-6 |
| Coleslaw | 1 cup |
| Pickles | 1 cup |
- Trim the fat from the pork shoulder or loin, if necessary.
- Rub the meat all over with a mixture of salt, pepper, and your favorite spices.
By following these simple steps and using a few secret tips and tricks, you can create a dish that’s sure to impress your friends and family. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the tender, juicy goodness of slow-cooked pulled pork sandwiches.
What is the best type of pork to use for pulled pork sandwiches?
The best type of pork to use for pulled pork sandwiches is a boneless pork shoulder or butt. This cut of meat is ideal because it is tender, juicy, and has a good amount of fat, which helps to keep it moist during the slow cooking process. You can also use a bone-in pork shoulder, but you will need to remove the bone before shredding the meat.
When selecting a pork shoulder, look for one that is around 2-3 pounds in size. This will give you enough meat for 4-6 sandwiches, depending on how generously you fill them. You can also use a larger or smaller pork shoulder, but you will need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How long does it take to cook pulled pork in a slow cooker?
The cooking time for pulled pork in a slow cooker will depend on the size of the pork shoulder and the temperature of your slow cooker. Generally, it takes around 8-10 hours to cook a 2-3 pound pork shoulder on low heat. If you prefer to cook it on high heat, it will take around 4-6 hours.
It’s essential to check the pork regularly during the last hour of cooking to ensure it is tender and falls apart easily. If it’s not tender, cover the slow cooker and cook for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour. Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before shredding.
What is the best way to shred pulled pork?
The best way to shred pulled pork is to use two forks to pull the meat apart into tender, juicy strands. Start by removing the pork from the slow cooker and placing it on a large cutting board or tray. Use one fork to hold the pork in place, and the other fork to pull the meat apart into shreds.
As you shred the pork, you can also use your fingers to help pull it apart. Be careful, as the pork may still be hot. Once the pork is shredded, you can return it to the slow cooker and stir in your favorite barbecue sauce or seasonings.
Can I make pulled pork sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes, you can make pulled pork sandwiches ahead of time. In fact, the pork is often more tender and flavorful when it’s cooked a day or two in advance. To make ahead, cook the pork in the slow cooker as directed, then shred it and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the pork in the slow cooker or on the stovetop with a little bit of barbecue sauce or broth. You can also assemble the sandwiches ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day.
What are some popular toppings for pulled pork sandwiches?
Some popular toppings for pulled pork sandwiches include coleslaw, pickles, barbecue sauce, and diced onions. You can also add some crispy bacon, melted cheese, or a dollop of sour cream to give your sandwiches an extra boost of flavor.
Feel free to get creative with your toppings and use your favorite ingredients. Some other ideas include diced bell peppers, jalapenos, or a sprinkle of cilantro. You can also serve the sandwiches on a variety of buns, such as soft buns, pretzel buns, or even gluten-free buns.
Can I freeze pulled pork for later use?
Yes, you can freeze pulled pork for later use. In fact, freezing is a great way to preserve the pork and keep it fresh for several months. To freeze, simply shred the cooked pork and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Label the container or bag with the date and contents, and store it in the freezer for up to 6 months.
When you’re ready to use the frozen pork, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or reheat it in the slow cooker or on the stovetop with a little bit of barbecue sauce or broth. You can also use frozen pulled pork in a variety of recipes, such as soups, stews, or casseroles.
How do I keep pulled pork sandwiches moist and juicy?
To keep pulled pork sandwiches moist and juicy, it’s essential to cook the pork low and slow, so it stays tender and falls apart easily. You can also add a little bit of liquid to the slow cooker, such as barbecue sauce or broth, to help keep the pork moist.
Another tip is to use a thermometer to ensure the pork is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 190°F. This will help prevent the pork from drying out. Finally, be sure to shred the pork gently, so you don’t end up with tough or stringy meat.