Gochujang-Style Pulled Pork Made in a Slow Cooker

Why This Recipe Is A Must Try

This dish offers a perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors thanks to the gochujang. The slow cooker makes the pork incredibly tender and easy to shred. It’s a hands-off meal that fills your kitchen with amazing aromas.

Cooking Hints

- Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder before cooking to avoid greasy results.
- Use low heat in the slow cooker for 8 hours to ensure the meat becomes tender and pulls apart easily.
- Stir the sauce halfway through cooking to evenly distribute the flavors.

Step 1

In a large bowl, whisk together the gochujang, onion, vinegar, chicken stock, honey, brown sugar, ginger, soy sauce, mustard, garlic, cinnamon, salt, thyme, and black pepper until everything is well combined. Coat the pork roast all over with this sauce, then transfer the sauce to your slow cooker and nestle the pork inside. Spoon a little extra sauce over the top, cover, and let it cook on low for about 8 hours, or until the pork is tender enough to shred easily.

Step 2

Once it's done, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take the pork out and shred it using two forks in a big bowl. Pour the cooking liquid from the slow cooker into a pot and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat, then lower the heat to a simmer.

Step 3

In a small bowl, mix together the butter and flour to make a paste, then stir it into the simmering sauce. Keep cooking for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens up nicely, then remove it from the heat.

Step 4

Spread the remaining butter on the inside of your buns and place them on a baking sheet. Pop them in the oven for 5 to 7 minutes until they’re toasted and golden brown.

Step 5

Finally, toss the shredded pork with the thickened sauce and sprinkle with green onions. Pile the flavorful pork onto the toasted buns and enjoy!

Serving Advice

Serve the pulled pork on soft buns with crunchy coleslaw for added texture. It also pairs well with steamed rice or wrapped in lettuce leaves for a lighter option. Add sliced cucumbers or pickled vegetables to balance the richness.

Keeping It Fresh

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to keep the meat moist. This pulled pork freezes well for up to 3 months—thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.