Choosing the Right Cut of Meat
The first step in making delicious BBQ pulled pork is selecting the right cut of meat. While there are many cuts of pork that can be used for pulled pork, we recommend using a pork shoulder or Boston butt. These cuts are ideal because they have a good amount of fat that will keep the meat moist during the long cooking process.
When selecting your pork shoulder or Boston butt, look for one that is at least 5-7 pounds. This will ensure that you have enough meat to feed a crowd. Additionally, look for a cut that has a good amount of marbling throughout the meat. This will help to keep the meat tender and juicy.
Once you have selected your cut of meat, it's time to start preparing it for the slow-cooking process. Begin by trimming any excess fat from the outside of the meat. While you want some fat to keep the meat moist, too much fat can make the pork greasy.
Preparing the Rub
The next step in making delicious BBQ pulled pork is preparing the rub. The rub is a blend of spices that will give your pork the delicious flavor that everyone loves. While there are many different rub recipes out there, we recommend keeping it simple with a blend of salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
To make the rub, simply combine 2 tablespoons of salt, 1 tablespoon of black pepper, 1 tablespoon of paprika, 1 tablespoon of garlic powder, and 1 tablespoon of onion powder in a small bowl. Mix the spices together until they are well combined.
Once you have your rub ready, it's time to apply it to the pork. Begin by rubbing a generous amount of the spice mixture all over the outside of the pork shoulder or Boston butt. Be sure to get the rub into all the nooks and crannies of the meat.
Slow-Cooking the Pork
Now that your pork is prepared, it's time to get it into the slow cooker. To ensure that your pork is cooked to perfection, we recommend cooking it on low heat for 8-10 hours. This will allow the meat to cook slowly and become tender and juicy.
To start the cooking process, place the pork shoulder or Boston butt into your slow cooker. Add 1 cup of chicken broth or water to the bottom of the slow cooker. This will help to keep the meat moist during the cooking process.
Next, cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low heat for 8-10 hours. During the cooking process, resist the urge to open the lid and check on the meat. Every time you open the lid, you release heat and moisture, which can increase the cooking time.
Shredding the Pork
Once the pork is cooked, it's time to shred it. Using two forks, pull the meat apart into small, bite-sized pieces. Be sure to discard any excess fat that may still be on the meat.
Once the pork is shredded, you can add your favorite BBQ sauce to it. While there are many different types of BBQ sauces out there, we recommend using a sweet and tangy sauce that will complement the flavor of the pork. You can also add some of the cooking liquid from the slow cooker to the shredded pork to keep it moist.
Serving the Pulled Pork
Now that your pork is ready, it's time to serve it up! We recommend serving your pulled pork on a soft, fluffy bun with a side of coleslaw. The coleslaw will provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory pork. You can also serve your pulled pork with some baked beans, corn on the cob, or potato salad.
If you have any leftover pulled pork, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze your leftover pulled pork for up to 3 months.
Last Thing
Making delicious BBQ pulled pork is easier than you think! By selecting the right cut of meat, preparing a delicious rub, and slow-cooking the pork to perfection, you can create a mouth-watering dish that will have your friends and family begging for seconds. So the next time you're planning a cookout, be sure to add BBQ pulled pork to the menu. Your guests will thank you!
