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Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

A close-up of shredded, saucy pioneer woman slow cooker pulled pork piled high on a white plate.
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Make tender, shreddable pulled pork in your slow cooker for easy barbecue sandwiches.

Ingredients

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  • 3-4 lb pork shoulder (Boston butt)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 cup water or chicken broth
  • 1 1/2 cups barbecue sauce

Instructions

  1. Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper to create the rub.
  3. Rub the spice mixture evenly over the entire pork shoulder.
  4. Place the seasoned pork in the slow cooker.
  5. Pour the water or broth around the pork.
  6. Cover and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours, or on high for 4 to 5 hours, until the pork is very tender.
  7. Remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Reserve the cooking liquid.
  8. Use two forks to shred the pork completely. Discard any large pieces of fat.
  9. Skim any excess fat from the reserved cooking liquid.
  10. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker. Pour the barbecue sauce and about 1/2 cup of the reserved liquid over the meat. Stir to combine.
  11. Cook on warm for 30 minutes to allow the pork to absorb the sauce.
  12. Serve hot on buns, topped with coleslaw if desired.

Notes

  • For best flavor, prepare the rub and apply it to the pork at least 2 hours before cooking, or even the night before.
  • If you prefer a saucier pork, add more barbecue sauce or cooking liquid during the final mixing step.
  • This pork freezes well. Cool completely, then store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://tasteportfolio.com/pioneer-woman-slow-cooker-pulled-pork/