Pulled pork is a popular dish that originated in the Southern United States. It involves slow-cooking pork shoulder or pork butt until it is tender and easily shreddable. The resulting meat can be used in a variety of dishes, from sandwiches to tacos to salads. Making pulled pork at home is a relatively easy process, but it does require some time and patience. By following a few simple steps, you can create delicious pulled pork that will be a hit with family and friends.
Here’s the full guide on how to make pulled pork:
Pulled pork is a classic barbecue dish that’s delicious, tender, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Making pulled pork takes some time, but it’s relatively easy to do. Here’s how to make pulled pork at home:
Ingredients:
- 4-6 lbs. pork shoulder or pork butt
- 2 tbsp. brown sugar
- 1 tbsp. smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp. garlic powder
- 1 tbsp. onion powder
- 1 tbsp. salt
- 1 tsp. black pepper
- 1 cup of water or chicken broth
- Barbecue sauce (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 225°F.
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a dry rub.
- Rub the dry rub all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly.
- Place the pork shoulder in a roasting pan and pour the water or chicken broth into the pan. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil.
- Put the roasting pan in the oven and cook for about 10-12 hours, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 200°F.
- Once the pork is done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 30 minutes.
- After resting, use a fork or tongs to shred the pork into small pieces.
- If desired, mix the pulled pork with barbecue sauce.
- Serve the pulled pork on buns or rolls, topped with coleslaw, pickles, or any other toppings you like.
Tips:
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork to make sure it’s fully cooked.
- For a smokier flavor, use a smoker instead of an oven to cook the pork.
- If you don’t have a roasting pan, you can use a large baking dish or a Dutch oven.
- Leftover pulled pork can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days, or in the freezer for up to six months.
Enjoy your homemade pulled pork!
In conclusion, making pulled pork requires some time and effort, but the end result is definitely worth it. By following these steps, you can achieve tender and flavorful pulled pork that is perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or any other dish you desire. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and flavor combinations to make it your own. Enjoy!