Tender Barbeque Pulled Pork from the Slow Cooker

A recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a delicious, hands-off meal. Slow cooking the pork makes it incredibly tender and flavorful, ready to be piled high on your favorite buns with tangy barbecue sauce.

Kitchen Advice

Trim excess fat from the pork for a leaner result.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork reaches 195°F for perfect shredding.
Let the pork rest for 10 minutes before shredding to keep it juicy.

Ingredients 0/9

1 (7 pound) pork shoulder roast ¾ cup molasses 1 tablespoon chili powder 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon cumin seeds 1 teaspoon ground coriander water to cover 1 (18 ounce) bottle barbeque sauce

Why This Recipe Is So Good

Perfect for busy days because the slow cooker does most of the work. The pork becomes incredibly tender and flavorful, soaking up the rich barbecue sauce. It’s a comforting meal that’s great for family gatherings or casual dinners.

Directions

Place the pork in your slow cooker. Sprinkle in the molasses, chili powder, salt, paprika, cumin seeds, and ground coriander. Pour in enough water to just cover the pork. Set the slow cooker to High and let it cook for about 6 to 8 hours until the meat is super tender. Once it’s done, drain off the liquid and use two forks to shred the pork right in the slow cooker. Stir in your favorite barbecue sauce, turn the heat down to Low, and let it cook for another hour so all those flavors can really soak in.

people cooked this recipe

By Daniel Wilson

Daniel focuses on practical recipes with clear steps and familiar ingredients.

Serving Inspiration

Serve the pulled pork on soft buns with coleslaw for a classic sandwich. It also pairs well with cornbread, baked beans, or a fresh green salad. For a twist, try it over rice or in tacos with your favorite toppings.

Reheating And Storage

Store leftover pulled pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little sauce or water to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?

Yes, pork shoulder is best for shredding, but pork butt or picnic roast can also work well.

How do I know when the pork is done cooking?

The pork is done when it’s very tender and easily shredded with two forks, usually after 6 to 8 hours on high.

Can I cook this on low instead of high?

Yes, you can cook it on low for 8 to 10 hours; the pork will still be tender and flavorful.

Do I need to add water for the slow cooker?

Yes, add enough water to just cover the pork to keep it moist during cooking.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely, you can cook it a day ahead and refrigerate; just reheat and add barbecue sauce before serving.

What type of barbecue sauce works best?

Use your favorite barbecue sauce, whether sweet, smoky, or spicy, to match your taste preferences.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage.

Can I skip the molasses or substitute it?

Molasses adds sweetness and depth, but you can substitute with honey or brown sugar if needed.