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Tender Pulled Pork Recipe 5 Easy Steps for Budget-Friendly Feast

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This tender pulled pork recipe is budget-friendly, easy to prepare, and yields juicy, flavorful pork perfect for any occasion. Slow-roasted with a simple rub and tangy sauce, it’s a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal fuss.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 to 5 pounds pork shoulder (also called pork butt), bone-in or boneless
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon paprika (smoked if possible)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon mustard (Dijon or yellow)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Trim any excessive fat from the pork, but leave some fat for juiciness. Pat the pork dry with paper towels.
  3. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Rub this mixture all over the pork shoulder, pressing it in to coat evenly. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes if time allows.
  4. Heat oil in a Dutch oven or large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the pork on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
  5. Transfer the seared pork to a roasting pan or keep it in the Dutch oven. Cover tightly with a lid or foil. Roast in the oven for 3 to 3 ½ hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 195°F (90°C) and the meat is fork-tender.
  6. While the pork cooks, whisk together ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, mustard, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  7. Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest covered for 15-20 minutes.
  8. Use two forks to shred the meat, discarding large chunks of fat.
  9. Gradually mix the shredded pork with the sauce, starting with half the sauce and adding more to reach desired flavor and moisture.
  10. Serve warm on buns, over rice, or with your favorite sides.

Notes

Searing the pork adds flavor and texture but can be skipped if short on time. Let the pork rest after cooking to redistribute juices. Add sauce gradually to avoid over-saucing. If pork isn’t shredding easily, cook longer and check every 20 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper doneness.

Nutrition

Keywords: pulled pork, pork shoulder, budget-friendly, slow roasted, barbecue, easy recipe, tender pork, crowd-pleaser, comfort food

Find it online: https://sweetstirring.com/tender-pulled-pork-recipe-5-easy-steps-for-budget-friendly-feast/