Pin it Succulent pulled pork slow-cooked and finished over open flame, tossed in smoky BBQ sauce, and piled high on toasted buns. Perfect for a hearty, rustic dinner with vibrant herb notes and a touch of fire-charred flavor.
A perfect recipe for when you want a smoky, slow-cooked meal that impresses with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
- Pork & Marinade: 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) boneless pork shoulder, 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp dried oregano, 2 tsp kosher salt, 1 tsp black pepper
- Cooking Liquid: 250 ml (1 cup) apple cider or apple juice, 80 ml (1/3 cup) chicken broth, 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- BBQ Sauce & Herbs: 240 ml (1 cup) smoky barbecue sauce, 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, 1 tbsp fresh chives chopped, 1 tbsp fresh thyme chopped
- Sandwich Assembly: 6 brioche or rustic sandwich buns, 1 small red onion thinly sliced, 1 cup coleslaw (optional), 2 tbsp butter (for toasting buns)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a small bowl combine smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper Rub the pork shoulder all over with olive oil then with the spice mixture
- Step 2:
- Place the pork in a slow cooker or Dutch oven Add apple cider, chicken broth, and Worcestershire sauce Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until pork is very tender and shreds easily
- Step 3:
- Preheat a grill or large cast-iron skillet over high heat
- Step 4:
- Remove the pork from the cooking liquid, shred with two forks, and toss with half the BBQ sauce and chopped fresh herbs
- Step 5:
- Place the shredded pork in a grill basket or directly on the skillet Sear for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pork develops crispy, fire-kissed edges
- Step 6:
- Meanwhile, butter the inside of each bun and toast on the grill or skillet until golden
- Step 7:
- Pile the pulled pork onto toasted buns Drizzle with additional BBQ sauce, top with red onions and coleslaw if desired Serve immediately
Pin it This recipe has become a family favorite for weekend gatherings, bringing everyone together for a flavorful meal.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper to the rub or serve with pickled jalapeños Use gluten-free buns if needed
Required Tools
Slow cooker or Dutch oven Grill or large cast-iron skillet Mixing bowls Grill basket (optional) Tongs Knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (buns), Soy (Worcestershire sauce and some BBQ sauces) May contain Egg, Dairy (buns and butter) Always check labels if serving those with allergies
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This pulled pork sandwich recipe is sure to impress whether for casual meals or special occasions.
Recipe FAQ
- → What cut of pork is best for this dish?
Boneless pork shoulder is ideal for slow cooking and shredding, providing tender, flavorful meat.
- → How do I achieve the fire-kissed flavor?
After slow cooking, sear the shredded pork on a hot grill or cast-iron skillet to develop crispy, charred edges.
- → Can I use other types of buns?
Brioche or rustic sandwich buns work best due to their texture and flavor, but gluten-free alternatives can be used.
- → What herbs complement the smoky pork?
Fresh parsley, chives, and thyme enhance the smoky profile with vibrant, herbal freshness.
- → Is it possible to make this spicier?
Yes, adding cayenne to the spice rub or serving with pickled jalapeños adds a spicy kick.
- → What liquids are used during cooking?
Apple cider, chicken broth, and Worcestershire sauce keep the pork moist and infuse layers of flavor.