Save to Pinterest Succulent pulled pork slow-cooked and finished over open flame, tossed in smoky BBQ sauce, and piled high on toasted buns. Perfect for a hearty, rustic dinner with vibrant herb notes and a touch of fire-charred flavor.
This recipe rekindles memories of weekend cookouts where family gathered around the grill, savoring each smoky bite full of love and tradition.
Ingredients
- Pork & Marinade: 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) boneless pork shoulder, 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp dried oregano, 2 tsp kosher salt, 1 tsp black pepper
- Cooking Liquid: 250 ml (1 cup) apple cider or apple juice, 80 ml (1/3 cup) chicken broth, 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- BBQ Sauce & Herbs: 240 ml (1 cup) smoky barbecue sauce, 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, 1 tbsp fresh chives chopped, 1 tbsp fresh thyme chopped
- Sandwich Assembly: 6 brioche or rustic sandwich buns, 1 small red onion thinly sliced, 1 cup coleslaw (optional), 2 tbsp butter (for toasting buns)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a small bowl combine smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Rub the pork shoulder all over with olive oil then with the spice mixture.
- Step 2:
- Place the pork in a slow cooker or Dutch oven. Add apple cider, chicken broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until pork is very tender and shreds easily.
- Step 3:
- Preheat a grill or large cast-iron skillet over high heat.
- Step 4:
- Remove the pork from the cooking liquid, shred with two forks, and toss with half the BBQ sauce and chopped fresh herbs.
- Step 5:
- Place the shredded pork in a grill basket or directly on the skillet. Sear for 35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pork develops crispy, fire-kissed edges.
- Step 6:
- Meanwhile, butter the inside of each bun and toast on the grill or skillet until golden.
- Step 7:
- Pile the pulled pork onto toasted buns. Drizzle with additional BBQ sauce, top with red onions and coleslaw if desired. Serve immediately.
Save to Pinterest Family gatherings become memorable with this flavorful pulled pork brought out fresh from the grill, shared over laughter and stories.
Notes
For a spicier kick add 12 tsp cayenne pepper to the rub or serve with pickled jalapeños. Pair with a crisp lager or a zesty rosé.
Required Tools
Slow cooker or Dutch oven, grill or large cast-iron skillet, mixing bowls, grill basket (optional), tongs, knife and cutting board.
Nutritional Information
Calories 570, total fat 23 g, carbohydrates 52 g, protein 36 g (per serving).
Save to Pinterest Enjoy your fire-kissed pulled pork sandwiches with family and friends for a truly satisfying meal that brings everyone together.
Recipe Frequently Asked Questions
- → What cut of pork is best for this dish?
Boneless pork shoulder is ideal due to its marbling and tenderness after slow cooking, allowing for easy shredding and rich flavor.
- → How do you achieve the fire-kissed flavor?
After shredding, the pork is seared on a hot grill or cast-iron skillet to create crispy, charred edges that enhance smoky and smoky notes.
- → Can I prepare the pork ahead of time?
Yes, slow-cooked pork can be made in advance and shredded later for searing and assembly just before serving.
- → What herbs complement the BBQ sauce in this dish?
Fresh parsley, chives, and thyme add bright, herbal layers that balance the smoky barbecue sauce and spices.
- → What are good serving suggestions?
Serve on toasted brioche or rustic buns with buttered edges, topped with sliced red onion and optional coleslaw for added texture and freshness.