Hey y’all! If you’re on the hunt for a mouthwatering, savory dish that’s perfect for any occasion, look no further than our Instant Pot Pulled Pork! This recipe is quick, easy, and bursting with flavor, making it a fantastic choice for family dinners, parties, or simply a cozy night in. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich, savory flavor that pleases every palate.
- Versatile dish that can be served in various ways.
- Juicy and tender texture thanks to the Instant Pot.
- Minimal cleanup with this one-pot wonder.
Ingredients
- 4 lbs pork shoulder (Boston butt), trimmed of excess fat
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Pork
Cut the pork shoulder into large chunks. This will help it cook evenly and absorb the flavors.
Step 2: Sear the Meat
Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and add olive oil. Once hot, sear the pork pieces until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Cook in the Instant Pot
Add chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir to combine, then add the pork back into the pot.
Seal the Instant Pot and cook on high pressure for 60 minutes. Allow natural release for 15 minutes before quick releasing any remaining pressure.
Step 4: Shred and Serve
Remove the pork and shred using two forks. Return to the pot and mix with the barbecue sauce. Serve hot.
Notes
- For a smoky flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of liquid smoke. Learn more about liquid smoke here.
- If your sauce is too thin, use the sauté function to reduce it for a few minutes.
- Check out this Instant Pot guide for more tips and tricks.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños for extra heat.
- Sweet and Tangy: Mix in pineapple chunks for a tropical twist.
- Keto-Friendly: Skip the brown sugar and use a sugar-free BBQ sauce.
Required Equipment
- Instant Pot
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Forks for shredding
Storage Instructions
Store leftover pulled pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the meat for up to 3 months.
Suggested Pairings
Serve your pulled pork on a soft bun with coleslaw, or pair with cornbread and a side of baked beans for a complete meal.
Pro Tips
- Trim excess fat before cooking to reduce greasiness.
- For even more flavor, marinate the pork overnight with the dry rub. Explore marinade recipes.
- Let the pork rest after cooking for the best texture.
FAQ
- Can I use a different cut of pork? Yes, pork butt or loin works well too, but cooking times may vary.
- How do I reheat pulled pork? Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.
- Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot? Yes, you can use a slow cooker; just cook on low for 8-10 hours.