Pulled pork is a classic BBQ dish that is flavorful, tender and easy to make. With the right technique, ingredients and some patience, you can make delicious pulled pork at home that rivals any barbecue joint. This step-by-step guide will teach you everything you need to know to make mouthwatering pulled pork in your own oven or smoker.
Ingredients Needed
To make pulled pork, you will need:
- A 3-5 lb pork shoulder or Boston butt roast
- Dry rub – use your favorite blend or make your own from spices like paprika, brown sugar, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt and pepper
- BBQ sauce or finishing sauce
- Smoker/grill or oven
- Aluminum foil or butcher paper
- BBQ tools – meat thermometer, tongs, oven mitts, etc.
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Shoulder
- Rinse the pork shoulder under cold water and pat it completely dry with paper towels.
- Trim off any excess fat to help the rub adhere to the meat.
- Generously apply the dry rub all over the pork shoulder, coating it completely. You can let it marinate for up to 24 hours in the fridge to really let the rub flavors soak in.
Step 2: Smoke or Roast the Pork
There are two methods for cooking pulled pork – smoking low and slow or roasting in the oven.
Smoking Method
- Set up your smoker or grill for smoking at 225-250°F, using your choice of wood chips for flavor.
- Place the seasoned pork shoulder directly on the smoker grates.
- Smoke for 8-12 hours, until it reaches an internal temperature of at least 195°F.
- Spritz or mop the pork with apple cider vinegar every hour during smoking. This helps keep the pork moist.
Oven Roasting Method
- Preheat oven to 300°F.
- Place the pork shoulder in a roasting pan and tightly cover with foil.
- Roast for at least 6 hours but up to 10 hours, until fork tender.
- When the internal temp reaches 165°F, unwrap and increase oven temp to 400°F to brown the outside.
Step 3: Rest, Shred and Serve
- Once pork reaches 195°F, remove it from the smoker or oven.
- Let it rest wrapped in foil or paper for 30-60 mins before shredding.
- Using two forks, shred the pork by pulling it apart into long, thin strands.
- Toss the shredded pork with your favorite BBQ sauce or finishing sauce.
- Serve on buns or over baked beans, mac and cheese, coleslaw or cornbread.
Some tips for juicy, flavorful pulled pork:
- Use bone-in cuts like shoulder for more moisture
- Apply rub up to a day ahead
- Use apple juice, soda or vinegar for braising if oven roasting
- Let pork rest before shredding to maximize juices
- Mix in crispy pork rinds for texture
With the right preparation and cooking technique, you can make restaurant-worthy pulled pork at home. It just takes time, patience and love! The end result – smoky, succulent pulled pork – is well worth the effort.
FAQs About Making Pulled Pork
How long does it take to make pulled pork?
Pulled pork takes 8-12 hours to smoke or 6-10 hours to roast in the oven. The long, slow cooking time is necessary to break down the pork’s tough connective tissues into tender, pull-apart meat. Allow for plenty of time when making pulled pork.
What is the best cut of pork for pulled pork?
The best cuts for pulled pork are the shoulder (also called Boston butt) or picnic ham. These cuts have more fat and collagen, which keep the pork moist and tender as it cooks down. Loin or tenderloin don’t work as well, since they are leaner cuts.
How can I tell when the pork is done?
Use a digital thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 195-205°F when fully cooked. The pork should feel very tender when poked with a fork. If smoking, look for the bone loosening from the meat.
Is it better to smoke or roast pulled pork?
Smoking imparts delicious wood-fired flavor, but roasting in the oven is easier for beginners. Both methods work well as long as the pork cooks low and slow until tender. Go with your preferred cooking method.
Can I make pulled pork in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?
Yes, you can make pulled pork in a slow cooker or pressure cooker like Instant Pot. Cook on low for 8+ hours or high pressure for 1-2 hours. The pork may not get as smoky as when smoked though.
How can I keep pulled pork moist?
Resting the pork after cooking allows juices to reabsorb. Pulling the pork instead of chopping it keeps strands intact. Mixing in defatted pan juices or a vinegar-based finishing sauce adds moisture when serving.
Conclusion
Making tender, juicy pulled pork requires patience for the low, slow cooking process. But the result is well worth it – flavorful barbecue that melts in your mouth. With the right preparation, seasonings and cooking technique, you can achieve authentic smoked pulled pork at home. Experiment with different rubs or sauces until you find a combination that suits your tastes. Part of the fun of making pulled pork is tailoring it to your preferences. Serve your homemade pulled pork in sandwiches, tacos, nachos, baked potatoes or breakfast hash. The possibilities are endless with this versatile southern barbecue classic.