A mouthwatering pulled pork recipe is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Tender, flavorful, and easy to make, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
Prep Time15 min
Cook Time7 hr 10 min
Total Time7 hr 25 min
Difficulty
Hard
Tips From The Kitchen
Use a slow cooker or oven at low heat to achieve the best tenderness.
Don’t rush the cooking time; low and slow is key for perfect pulled pork.
Let the meat rest for a few minutes before shredding to keep it juicy.
Ingredients
0/16
Why This Recipe Is A Must Try
Full of rich, smoky flavors that melt in your mouth. The pork becomes tender and juicy after slow cooking, making it perfect for comforting meals. Its balance of sweet and savory notes keeps everyone coming back for more.
Step 1
Season the pork tenderloin with salt, black pepper, and about half a teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Heat some oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then brown the pork on all sides—it should take around 10 minutes. Once it’s nicely browned, transfer the pork to your slow cooker.
Step 2
Add a mix of water, brown sugar, cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and a bit of hot sauce to the slow cooker. Let everything cook on low for about 7 hours until the pork is tender and easy to shred.
Step 3
When it’s done, take the pork out and set it on a platter. Drain the cooking liquid but keep about half a cup to use later. Shred the pork with two forks and put it back into the slow cooker. Pour in just enough of the reserved liquid to keep the meat moist and flavorful.
Step 4
While the pork finishes, mix together mayonnaise, white vinegar, garlic powder, lemon pepper, and a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper in a small bowl. Serve this tangy sauce alongside the shredded pork for a delicious finishing touch.
176
people cooked this recipe
ByDaniel Wilson
Daniel focuses on practical recipes with clear steps and familiar ingredients.
Serving Options To Try
Serve this pulled pork on soft buns with coleslaw for a classic sandwich. It also pairs well with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. For a fun twist, try it as a topping for nachos or baked potatoes.
Keeping It Fresh
Store leftover pulled pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It also freezes well—place it in a freezer-safe bag or container and use within 3 months. Reheat gently to keep the meat tender and moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of pork instead of tenderloin?
Yes, pork shoulder or pork butt works well and is even more traditional for pulled pork. Adjust cooking time as needed.
How do I know when the pork is done cooking?
The pork is done when it’s very tender and easily shredded with forks, usually after about 7 hours on low in the slow cooker.
Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook the pork in a covered pot in the oven at 300°F for 3-4 hours until tender.
How spicy is this dish with the cayenne and hot sauce?
It has a mild to moderate kick, but you can adjust the cayenne and hot sauce amounts to suit your heat preference.
What can I use the leftover cooking liquid for?
Use it to moisten the shredded pork, or reduce it to make a flavorful sauce or glaze.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the mayonnaise-based sauce can be mixed a few hours ahead and refrigerated until serving.
Is the mayonnaise sauce essential?
It adds a tangy, creamy element that complements the pork well, but you can serve the pork with your favorite sauce instead.
How should I store leftovers?
Keep leftover pork and sauce in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
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