Description
A tender, flavorful slow cooker pulled pork recipe that replicates the taste of Carolina BBQ joints. This method uses a seared pork butt, a homemade dry rub, and a rich cooking liquid for a game-changing comfort food dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4–5 lb Pork Butt (Boston Butt)
- Vegetable Oil or Avocado Oil (for searing)
- Smoked Paprika
- Brown Sugar
- Garlic Powder
- Onion Powder
- Chili Powder
- Ground Cumin
- Kosher Salt
- Black Pepper
- Apple Cider Vinegar
- Brown Gravy Base
- Water
- BBQ Sauce
- Honey (optional)
Instructions
- Trim large chunks of hard fat from the pork butt, leaving some fat cap for flavor. Pat the meat dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to create the dry rub.
- Coat the pork generously with the rub, massaging it into all sides. Let it sit for 15 minutes.
- Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat with oil. Sear the pork for 3-4 minutes per side until a dark brown crust forms.
- Transfer the seared pork to a 6-quart slow cooker.
- Pour in the apple cider vinegar. Dissolve the brown gravy base in water and pour it over the meat. Add enough water to cover half the pork.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 5 hours, until the meat pulls apart easily.
- Remove the pork and let it rest for 10 minutes. Skim the fat from the cooking liquid.
- Shred the pork using two forks or meat claws, discarding bones and gristle.
- Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix in the BBQ sauce and honey (if using).
- Let it heat through for 15 minutes to meld flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve on buns.
Notes
Do not lift the lid while cooking to maintain temperature. Ensure the pork reaches an internal temperature of 195°F to 205°F for proper collagen breakdown. The flavors improve if made ahead and refrigerated overnight. For a gluten-free option, check labels on BBQ sauce and gravy base.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Quarter cup per pers
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 12
- Sodium: 800
- Fat: 25
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Carbohydrates: 15
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 35
Keywords: slow cooker, pulled pork, BBQ, pork butt, comfort food, copycat recipe, easy dinner, meal prep