Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
User Reviews
4.9
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
6 hrs
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Total Time
6 hrs 10 mins
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Servings
4 people
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Calories
273 kcal
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Course
Main Course
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Description
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork uses a trimmed pork shoulder seasoned and marinated with a blend of orange juice, liquid sweetener, ketchup, balsamic vinegar, smoked paprika, and garlic granules. The pork is rubbed with seasoning and slow cooked on either high or low heat for several hours until fork-tender. Once cooked, the meat is shredded and mixed back into the cooking juices, allowing it to soak up the rich, slightly sweet and smoky marinade. The slow cooking method ensures the pork remains moist with tender strands, ideal for pulled pork dishes.
The combination of orange juice and balsamic vinegar creates a subtle tang while the smoked paprika adds a gentle smoky depth. Garlic granules contribute a savory background flavor. The dish can be enhanced by adding chili flakes or liquid smoke for heat and intensity.
When cooking, watch for doneness by how easily the pork pulls apart to avoid drying. Excess liquid can be removed before mixing the shredded meat back to prevent a soggy texture. This pulled pork is versatile for sandwiches, tacos, or as a main protein with sides.
Slow cooker times vary, so checking the meat’s tenderness is important to prevent overcooking. Leftover pork stores well refrigerated and can be reheated gently in its juices to maintain moisture.
Ingredients
- 950 g pork shoulder fat trimmed
- 60 ml orange juice
- 3 tablespoon liquid sweetener
- 2 tablespoon ketchup
- 2 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoon garlic granules
- 2 pinch sea salt
- 2 pinch black pepper
Instructions
- In a bowl, put 60 ml Orange juice, 3 tablespoon Liquid sweetener, 2 tablespoon Ketchup, 2 tablespoon Balsamic vinegar, 2 teaspoon Garlic granules and 2 teaspoon Smoked paprika. Mix well to combine.
- Put 950 g Pork shoulder into the slow cooker and season with 2 pinch Sea salt and ground black pepper on both sides.
- Pour the marinade over the pork and, using your hands, rub into the meat on all sides.
- Cook on high for 6 hours or on low for 12 hours.
- Remove the meat from the slow cooker and put onto a chopping board. Using the backs of two forks, pull the meat apart until it is completely shredded.
- Return the shredded meat to the slow cooker and mix into all the liquid.
Notes
- Check the pork regularly during cooking to avoid overcooking and drying out the meat.
- For added spice and smokiness, incorporate red chili flakes or chipotle paste into the marinade.
- If there is too much liquid after cooking, remove some before mixing shredded pork back to maintain a good texture.
- Adding a small amount of liquid smoke can enhance the flavor depth of this pulled pork.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4people
Amount Per Serving
Calories 273 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1portion | |
| Calories | 273kcal | 14% |
| Carbohydrates | 14g | 5% |
| Protein | 29g | 58% |
| Fat | 11g | 17% |
| Saturated Fat | 4g | 20% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g | 6% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 5g | 25% |
| Cholesterol | 97mg | 32% |
| Sodium | 183mg | 8% |
| Potassium | 597mg | 13% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 11g | 22% |
| Vitamin A | 579IU | 12% |
| Vitamin C | 9mg | 10% |
| Calcium | 29mg | 3% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.