Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Snacks
Meals
Drinks
Vegan
Smart Cooking Tips
- Use a slow cooker or cook low and slow in the oven to get the meat tender and easy to shred.
- Don’t rush the seasoning; let the spices marinate in the pork for at least an hour before cooking.
- For extra smoky flavor, add a small amount of smoked paprika or chipotle powder.
Ingredients 0/18
Reasons You'll Love It
Rich in bold flavors and a perfect balance of heat and sweetness. The tender, juicy meat melts in your mouth, making every bite satisfying and comforting. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and excitement to any meal.
Directions
Combin tomato paste, vinegar, onion flakes, yellow mustard, molasses, garlic, olive oil, and liquid smoke in a bowl until it forms a thick, flavorful paste. Next, stir in the brown sugar, kosher salt, cumin, chipotle pepper, paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, mustard powder, and cayenne pepper to give it a nice spicy kick. Place the pork shoulder in your slow cooker and coat it thoroughly with the spice paste. Cook on high for about 4 hours until the meat is tender. Once it’s done, shred the pork using two forks and remove the bone. Turn the slow cooker down to low and let it cook for another 1 to 2 hours so all the flavors really soak in.
341
people cooked this recipe
Serving Recommendations
Serve this spicy pulled pork on toasted buns with coleslaw for a classic sandwich. It also works great as a taco filling with fresh cilantro and lime. Pair it with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad to balance the heat.
Storage Guide
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to keep the meat moist. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to three months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of pork instead of pork shoulder?
Yes, pork butt or pork picnic roast can be used as they also become tender and shred easily.
How spicy is this recipe?
It has a medium to hot spice level due to chipotle, cayenne, and smoked paprika, but you can adjust the cayenne to make it milder.
Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook it in a covered oven-safe dish at 300°F (150°C) for about 3-4 hours until tender.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Can I prepare the spice paste in advance?
Yes, you can make the spice paste a day ahead and refrigerate it for convenience.
What should I serve with this pulled pork?
It pairs well with buns for sandwiches, coleslaw, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Is apple cider vinegar necessary?
Apple cider vinegar adds tang and helps balance flavors, but you can substitute with white vinegar or lemon juice.
Do I need to remove the bone before cooking?
No, cook the pork shoulder with the bone in, then remove it after shredding the meat.
