Crockpot Pulled Pork: A High Protein Meal
If you’re looking for a delicious, high-protein meal that’s easy to make and sure to impress, look no further than this crockpot pulled pork recipe. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead. This dish combines tender, flavorful pork with a variety of spices and sauces, making it a versatile addition to any meal. Serve it with your favorite sides or on a bun for a satisfying sandwich!
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 3-4 lbs pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (choose a high-protein variety)
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Instructions
- Start by preparing the pork shoulder. Trim any excess fat and cut it into large chunks to fit into your crockpot.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sear the pork chunks on all sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step enhances the flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
- Once seared, place the pork in the crockpot. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic on top of the pork.
- In a bowl, mix together the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, barbecue sauce, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Pour this mixture over the pork in the crockpot.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Once cooked, remove the pork from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded pork to the crockpot and mix it with the juices for extra flavor.
- Serve the pulled pork on its own, with your choice of sides, or on a bun for a delicious sandwich. Enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Pulled Pork
To ensure your pulled pork turns out perfectly every time, consider the following tips:
- Choose the right cut: Pork shoulder is ideal for shredding due to its marbling and fat content, which keeps the meat moist during cooking.
- Allow for rest: After cooking, let the pork rest for about 10 minutes before shredding. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat.
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to customize the spices and sauces to suit your taste. You can try different barbecue sauces or add more spices for a kick.
Serving Suggestions
This crockpot pulled pork is incredibly versatile! Here are some serving suggestions:
- Sandwiches: Serve the pulled pork on a toasted bun with coleslaw for a classic BBQ sandwich.
- Tacos: Use the pulled pork as a filling for soft tortillas, topped with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime.
- Bowls: Create a protein-packed bowl with pulled pork, brown rice, black beans, corn, and avocado.
- Salads: Top a fresh green salad with the shredded pork for a hearty meal.
Storing and Reheating
Leftover pulled pork can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it up on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Conclusion
This crockpot pulled pork recipe is a delicious and high-protein meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe has you covered. Enjoy the rich flavors and tender texture, and don’t forget to share your creations!
