Pulled Pork Sandwiches Recipe

Pork shoulder: A cut of meat that becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked.

Bbq sauce: Provides the tangy and sweet flavor base for the pulled pork.

Chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth of flavor to the cooking liquid.

Brown sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.

Paprika: Adds a mild, smoky flavor to the pork.

Garlic powder: Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of garlic.

Onion powder: Adds a subtle onion flavor without the texture of fresh onions.

Salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth to the flavor profile.

Burger buns: The vessel for serving the pulled pork, providing a soft and slightly sweet contrast.

Coleslaw: An optional topping that adds a refreshing crunch and creamy texture.

When shredding the pork shoulder, use two forks to pull the meat apart while it's still warm. This will ensure the pork is tender and easy to shred. Additionally, after shredding, let the pork sit in the slow cooker juices for at least 10-15 minutes to absorb more flavor before serving on burger buns. This step enhances the overall taste and juiciness of your pulled pork sandwiches.

• pork shoulder - Substitute with chicken thighs: Chicken thighs have a similar texture and can absorb flavors well, making them a good alternative for pulled meat dishes.

• bbq sauce - Substitute with teriyaki sauce: Teriyaki sauce provides a sweet and savory flavor that can complement the pulled meat similarly to BBQ sauce.

• chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can provide a similar depth of flavor and is a good option for those avoiding animal products.

• brown sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds sweetness and a bit of moisture, making it a good alternative to brown sugar.

• paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a similar flavor with an extra smoky depth, enhancing the overall taste.

• garlic powder - Substitute with fresh garlic: Fresh garlic provides a more intense and aromatic flavor compared to garlic powder.

• onion powder - Substitute with fresh onion: Fresh onion can offer a more robust and natural onion flavor.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add saltiness along with a bit of umami, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat but a slightly different flavor, making it a good alternative.

• burger buns - Substitute with ciabatta rolls: Ciabatta rolls are sturdy and can hold up well to the moisture of pulled meat, providing a different texture.

• coleslaw - Substitute with pickled vegetables: Pickled vegetables add a tangy crunch that complements the rich flavors of the pulled meat.

• Allow the pulled pork to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the meat soggy.
• Transfer the shredded pork into an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bags. If using bags, squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Label the container or bag with the date and contents. This helps you keep track of how long the pulled pork has been stored.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, place the container or bag in the freezer, where it can be kept for up to 3 months.
• When ready to reheat, thaw frozen pulled pork in the refrigerator overnight. This ensures even thawing and helps maintain the texture and flavor.
• Reheat the pulled pork in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or bbq sauce to keep it moist. Stir occasionally until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat the pulled pork in the microwave. Place it in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
• If you have leftover coleslaw, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Do not freeze coleslaw as it can become watery and lose its crunch.
• To assemble your pulled pork sandwiches, toast the burger buns lightly for added texture. Add the reheated pulled pork and top with coleslaw, if desired. Enjoy your delicious meal!

• Preheat your oven to 300°F. Place the pulled pork in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through. This method helps retain moisture and prevents the pork from drying out.
• For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place the pulled pork in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot. This keeps the pork juicy and prevents it from becoming rubbery.
• If you have a stovetop, reheat the pulled pork in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or bbq sauce to keep it moist. Stir occasionally until heated through, usually about 5-10 minutes.
• For a smoky flavor, reheat the pulled pork on a grill. Wrap the pork in foil with a bit of bbq sauce and place it on the grill over indirect heat. Close the lid and heat for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally.
• To reheat the burger buns, lightly toast them in a toaster or on a skillet until they are warm and slightly crispy. This adds a delightful texture to your pulled pork sandwiches.
• If you have leftover coleslaw, serve it cold directly from the fridge. The contrast between the warm pulled pork and the cool, crunchy coleslaw creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

• Slow cooker: Essential for cooking the pork shoulder slowly and evenly, ensuring it becomes tender and flavorful.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the bbq sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, and spices before pouring over the pork.

• Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the bbq sauce and chicken broth.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

• Forks: Utilized to shred the cooked pork shoulder into fine pieces.

• Tongs: Helpful for removing the pork shoulder from the slow cooker without making a mess.

• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for handling the pork shoulder before and after cooking.

• Knife: Useful for trimming any excess fat from the pork shoulder before cooking.

• Burger buns: The base for serving the pulled pork, providing a soft and delicious vessel.

• Serving spoon: Handy for scooping the shredded pork onto the burger buns.

• Coleslaw: Optional, but adds a crunchy and refreshing element to the sandwich.

Use a pressure cooker: Reduce cooking time by using a pressure cooker instead of a slow cooker. Cook on high pressure for about 1 hour.

Pre-mix spices: Combine all dry spices in advance and store in an airtight container. This saves time when preparing the pork shoulder.

Store-bought coleslaw: Use pre-made coleslaw to save time on preparation.

Shred with a mixer: Use a hand mixer to quickly shred the pork instead of using forks.

Batch cooking: Make a larger batch and freeze portions for future quick meals.