There’s nothing quite like a delicious Slow Cooker Pulled Pork plate to bring friends and family together. Growing up in the South, I remember weekends spent with my family, where the aroma of slow-cooked meats filled the air.
This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Affiliate, if you purchase through those links, I earn a small commission. Thank you!
This dish always made me feel at home, celebrating the rich flavors of Southern cuisine. Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual get-together, this recipe brings warmth, comfort and a touch of nostalgia to the table.
A Southern food classic
Southern food has a special place in my heart. I recall countless family reunions where pulled pork was the star of the show. My grandmother would make it for big gatherings, serving it with homemade coleslaw and sweet tea. The joy of watching everyone savor each bite made those moments unforgettable.
Southern cooking, filled with love and tradition, is more than just food; it’s about the memories we create together. Pulled pork is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of family, friends and all the wonderful moments we share.
Ingredients
How to make Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Making Slow Cooker Pulled Pork is a simple and enjoyable process. Begin by preparing the pork loin; place it in your slow cooker and add the olive oil, brown sugar, mustard, soy sauce, bay leaves, black beer, salt and pepper. These ingredients combine to create a rich flavor that seeps into the meat as it cooks.
Next, cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat for six hours. This slow cooking makes the pork tender and juicy while the flavors blend well. When the cooking time is up, take off the lid and use two forks to shred the pork right in the slow cooker.
Finally, leave the shredded pork uncovered for another 30 to 45 minutes. This extra time lets the sauce thicken and soak into the meat, enhancing the flavors. The result is a delicious dish that’s not only easy to make but also perfect for sharing with family and friends. Anyone can master this comforting Southern classic!
Serving suggestions
When serving Slow Cooker Pulled Pork, embrace the spirit of Southern hospitality. Serve it on soft, warm buns with a dollop of tangy coleslaw on top for that perfect crunch. Pair it with classic Southern sides like baked beans, cornbread or potato salad for a complete meal.
Don’t forget to have some pickles and hot sauce on the side for those who like an extra kick. Sharing this meal with family and friends will create a cozy atmosphere of laughter and joy.
Storage tips
Storing leftovers is easy! Place any pulled pork in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then warm it up on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. This way, you can enjoy the delightful flavors of Southern cooking even on busy days.
Southern farewell
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of the warmth of family gatherings and the joy of sharing meals. I encourage you to try this recipe, whether it’s for a casual dinner or a special occasion.
May it bring as much joy to your table as it has to mine. Remember, good food brings people together, and every bite of this dish is a taste of Southern tradition.
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Meat Thermometer
- Mixing bowls
Ingredients
- 2 pounds pork loin
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup mustard
- 1 can black beer such as a porter
- 2 bay leaves
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Place the pork loin in your slow cooker. Add the olive oil, brown sugar, mustard, soy sauce, bay leaves, black beer, salt and pepper.
- Cover the slow cooker with a lid. Set it to cook on the low setting for 6 hours.
- After 6 hours, carefully remove the lid. Using two forks, shred the pork right in the slow cooker.
- Leave the shredded pork uncovered and continue to cook for an additional 30-45 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken to your desired consistency.
- Once the sauce thickens, serve the shredded pork on warm buns or rolls. Enjoy with your favorite sides and toppings!
Notes
- Pork cut: While we enjoy using pork loin for its lean quality, pork shoulder or pork butt (Boston butt) offers juiciness and rich flavor due to its higher fat content. Choose your cut based on your personal preference for taste and texture!
- Beer choice: Dark beer adds a wonderful depth of flavor, but don’t hesitate to experiment with other options. A good ale or even root beer can provide a delightful sweetness that enhances the dish.
- How to tell when pork is ready to shred: Your pork should feel tender when it’s time to shred. It should easily pull apart with forks. If it resists a bit, give it some more cooking time to ensure it’s perfectly tender.
- Shredding hack: While two forks do the trick for shredding, you can speed things up using an electric hand mixer. Just be cautious not to overdo it, as you want to maintain some texture in the meat!
- Season to taste: After shredding the pork, take a moment to taste it and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Sometimes, adding a bit more salt, pepper or brown sugar can enhance the flavors. A splash of barbecue sauce can also elevate the taste!
- Make it your own: Feel free to customize the dish with additional spices or ingredients that suit your palate. Garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, chili powder for a little heat, or a dash of apple cider vinegar can all add exciting layers of flavor.
