Slow Cooker Carolina-Style Pulled Pork

Introduction

Slow Cooker Carolina-Style Pulled Pork is a delicious, easy dish that fills your home with a wonderful aroma while cooking. This recipe uses a slow cooker, making it perfect for busy days. You can enjoy tender, flavorful pork with minimal effort.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is great for gatherings, game days, or a simple family dinner. The pulled pork can be served in many ways, and the ingredients are simple to find. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to make a large meal that everyone will love!

How to Make Slow Cooker Carolina-Style Pulled Pork

Ingredients:

4 lbs pork shoulder or butt
1 cup apple cider vinegar
1/2 cup ketchup
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon yellow mustard
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
Buns for serving (optional)
Coleslaw for serving (optional)

Directions:

Place the chopped onion and minced garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker.
Rub the pork shoulder with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Place the seasoned pork on top of the onions and garlic in the slow cooker.
In a bowl, mix together the apple cider vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and yellow mustard. Pour this mixture over the pork.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 5-6 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and stir it into the sauce.
Serve the pulled pork on buns with coleslaw, if desired.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Carolina-Style Pulled Pork

Serve the pulled pork on soft buns. You can add coleslaw on top for some crunch or on the side. It goes well with baked beans or potato salad too!

How to Store Slow Cooker Carolina-Style Pulled Pork

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the pulled pork. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or use a freezer bag, and it can last for up to 3 months.

Tips to Make Slow Cooker Carolina-Style Pulled Pork

For more flavor, season the pork shoulder a few hours before cooking.
Use a meat thermometer to check if the pork is cooked to at least 190°F for perfect shredding.
If you like more sauce, save some extra barbecue sauce to drizzle before serving.

Variation (If Any)

You can add different spices or sauces to change the flavor. Try using a different type of vinegar or add some BBQ sauce for a sweeter taste!

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of meat? Yes, other cuts like pork loin can be used, but they might not be as tender as the shoulder.
Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker? Yes! You can cook the pork in the oven at 300°F for about 4-6 hours until it is tender.
Is it okay to use boneless pork? Yes, boneless pork works just fine. Just make sure it’s still a good cut for slow cooking.