Description
James Martin’s Pulled Pork is a classic slow-cooked pork dish, typically made from pork shoulder or pork butt, seasoned with spices, and cooked low and slow until tender. The pork is shredded and usually paired with barbecue sauce for a rich, flavorful finish. It’s great served in buns or alongside coleslaw, potatoes, or grilled vegetables.
Ingredients
- Turkey Pork shoulder: 1.5-2 kg (bone-in or boneless), for the best results.
- Brown sugar: 2 tablespoons, for a touch of sweetness in the rub.
- Smoked paprika: 2 teaspoons, for a smoky flavor.
- Ground cumin: 1 teaspoon, to add depth to the seasoning.
- Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon, for a hint of garlic.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon, to enhance the flavors.
- Black pepper: 1 teaspoon, for seasoning.
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons, to help coat the pork with the seasoning.
- Barbecue sauce: 200ml, for coating the pulled pork after cooking.
- Apple cider vinegar: 2 tablespoons, to balance the flavors and add tang.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pork
- Make the Spice Rub: In a small mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub the Pork: Rub the pork shoulder all over with olive oil, then coat it generously with the spice rub, making sure to cover all sides.
2. Slow Cook the Pork
- Preheat the Slow Cooker: Set your slow cooker to low or preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F).
- Cook the Pork: Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker or a roasting pan. If using the oven, cover the pan with foil to trap moisture. Cook for 6-8 hours on low (or in the oven), until the pork is tender and easily falls apart.
3. Finish and Shred the Pork
- Shred the Pork: Once the pork is cooked, use two forks to shred the meat directly in the slow cooker or roasting pan.
- Add Barbecue Sauce: Pour in the barbecue sauce and apple cider vinegar, then toss the shredded pork in the sauce until well-coated.
- Optional Step (Crispy Edges): If you prefer crispy edges, transfer the shredded pork to a baking tray and place it under the grill (broiler) for 5-10 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
4. Serve
- Serve the Pulled Pork: Serve the pulled pork in buns, over rice, or with your favorite sides like coleslaw, potato salad, or roasted vegetables.