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Easy Crock Pot Pulled Pork Recipe: A Simple Delight

If you’re searching for a mouth-watering dish that requires minimal effort and maximum flavour, look no further than this Easy Crock Pot Pulled Pork recipe. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or even meal prep for the week, this recipe combines succulent pork with a medley of spices and sauce for a dish that melts in your mouth. Here’s how to create this crowd-pleaser from the comfort of your own home.

Ingredients

To make this delectable pulled pork, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1.5 to 2 kg of pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 240 ml (1 cup) of barbecue sauce (your choice)
• 120 ml (½ cup) of chicken or vegetable broth
• Optional: 1 tablespoon of brown sugar for added sweetness
• Optional: 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce for a deeper flavour

Instructions

1. Prep the Pork: Begin by trimming any excess fat from the pork shoulder. While a little fat helps keep the meat moist during cooking, too much can lead to a greasy final product.

2. Season the Meat: In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, black pepper, and salt. Rub this spice blend all over the pork, ensuring it’s well coated to infuse flavour during the cooking process.

3. Sauté the Aromatics: In a frying pan over medium heat, add a splash of oil and sauté the sliced onion until it becomes translucent and slightly caramelised. Stir in the minced garlic for the last minute, ensuring it doesn’t burn.

4. Layer in the Slow Cooker: Place the sautéed onions and garlic at the bottom of the crock pot. Lay the seasoned pork shoulder on top and pour over the barbecue sauce and broth. If using, add the brown sugar and Worcestershire sauce at this point for an extra kick of flavour.

5. Slow Cook: Cover the crock pot and set it to low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. The long, slow cooking method will break down the collagen in the pork, resulting in juicy, tender meat that practically falls apart.

6. Shred the Pork: Once cooked, remove the pork from the crock pot and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded pork to the crock pot, mixing it with the juices and sauce left inside for added flavour.

7. Serve: Pulled pork is incredibly versatile. You can serve it on toasted brioche buns for sandwiches, with rice, or even alongside coleslaw for a more traditional Southern meal. Don’t forget a drizzle of extra barbecue sauce if you fancy!

Tips for the Perfect Pulled Pork

• Quality of Meat: Choosing a good quality pork shoulder will pay dividends in flavour and texture. Look for a well-marbled cut for the best results.
• Storage: Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Simply reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
• Customisation: Feel free to alter the seasonings and barbecue sauce to suit your taste. Experiment with different flavours and spice levels for a personalised touch.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Crock Pot Pulled Pork recipe is sure to become a favourite in your household. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also creates a comforting dish that can be enjoyed in multiple ways. Whether it’s a family meal, a potluck dish, or just a delightful weekend treat, this recipe delivers flavour with ease. Give it a try and watch it disappear from the table — your friends and family will be coming back for seconds!

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