If you’re craving tender, juicy pulled pork but don’t have hours to spend slow-cooking it, then look no further! This article will teach you how to make mouthwatering pulled pork using a pressure cooker. Say goodbye to long hours of waiting and hello to a delicious meal in a fraction of the time. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a hearty, flavorful dish that will leave your taste buds begging for more. So grab your pressure cooker and let’s get cooking!
Equipment Needed
To make delicious pulled pork in a pressure cooker, you’ll need the following equipment:
Pressure Cooker
A pressure cooker is essential for this recipe as it allows you to cook the pork quickly and efficiently.
Trivet
A trivet is a metal stand that elevates the pork from the bottom of the pressure cooker. This helps ensure even cooking and prevents the meat from sticking to the pot.
Tongs
Tongs are necessary for safely handling the hot pork shoulder when transferring it in and out of the pressure cooker.
Meat Thermometer
A meat thermometer is crucial for checking the internal temperature of the pork to ensure it is cooked to perfection.
Cutting Board
For easy and safe handling, a cutting board is needed to place and shred the cooked pork shoulder.
Knife
A sharp knife is necessary for trimming excess fat from the pork shoulder, as well as for shredding the meat.
Ingredients
To create the perfect pulled pork, gather the following ingredients:
Pork Shoulder
Choose a pork shoulder that weighs around 3-4 pounds. This cut of meat is ideal for pulled pork as it becomes tender and juicy when slow-cooked.
Olive Oil
Use a couple of tablespoons of olive oil to sauté the onion and garlic and add a rich flavor to the dish.
Onion and Garlic
Diced onion and minced garlic form the base of the flavor for the pulled pork.
Barbecue Sauce
A cup of your favorite barbecue sauce adds a tangy and smoky flavor to the pulled pork.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Half a cup of apple cider vinegar adds a touch of acidity, which balances the richness of the barbecue sauce.
Chicken Broth
A half cup of chicken broth adds moisture to the dish and helps keep the pork shoulder tender.
Brown Sugar
Two tablespoons of brown sugar add a hint of sweetness to the pulled pork.
Smoked Paprika, Chili Powder, Salt, and Black Pepper
Season the pork shoulder with a tablespoon of smoked paprika, a teaspoon of chili powder, a teaspoon of salt, and half a teaspoon of black pepper to enhance the flavor.
Preparation
Before cooking the pulled pork, make sure to prepare the ingredients properly:
Trim Excess Fat
Start by trimming any excess fat from the pork shoulder. While a little fat adds flavor, too much can make the dish greasy.
Season the Pork Shoulder
To enhance the flavor of the pork, season it generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Make sure to coat all sides of the meat.
Preheat the Pressure Cooker
Preheating the pressure cooker on the sauté setting ensures that the pork will cook evenly and thoroughly.
Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Add olive oil to the preheated pressure cooker and sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until they become fragrant. This step adds a delicious aroma to the dish.
Place the Seasoned Pork Shoulder
Carefully place the seasoned pork shoulder in the pressure cooker on top of the sautéed onion and garlic.
Add Barbecue Sauce, Apple Cider Vinegar, Chicken Broth, and Brown Sugar
Pour in the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, chicken broth, and brown sugar. Mix everything together to ensure the pork is coated evenly.
Secure the Lid on the Pressure Cooker
Finally, secure the lid on the pressure cooker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This will seal in the flavors and allow the pork to cook under pressure.
Cooking
Once all the ingredients are prepared, it’s time to cook the pulled pork in the pressure cooker:
Pressure Cook on High
Set the pressure cooker to cook on high pressure for approximately 60-90 minutes per pound of pork. This will ensure that the meat becomes tender and easy to shred.
Allow the Pressure to Release Naturally
After the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10-15 minutes. This helps the meat retain its moisture and ensures it remains juicy.
Release Any Remaining Pressure
Use the quick-release valve to release any remaining pressure from the pressure cooker. This will allow you to safely open the lid and check the doneness of the meat.
Check the Internal Temperature
To ensure the pork shoulder is cooked thoroughly, use a meat thermometer to check its internal temperature. It should read 195°F (90°C) for tender pulled pork.
Transfer the Cooked Pork Shoulder
Using tongs, carefully transfer the cooked pork shoulder from the pressure cooker to a cutting board. Be cautious as the meat will be very hot.
Shredding
Shredding the cooked pork shoulder is an important step in making pulled pork:
Use Two Forks
Using two forks, gently pull the pork shoulder apart. The meat should easily shred into tender, bite-sized pieces.
Discard Excess Fat
While shredding, be sure to discard any excess fat that you come across. This will help make the pulled pork leaner and more flavorful.
Return the Shredded Pork to the Pressure Cooker
Once shredded, return the pork to the pressure cooker. The meat will soak up any remaining sauce and flavors.
Mix the Pork with the Sauce
Stir the shredded pork shoulder to ensure that it is evenly coated with the flavorful sauce. This step ensures that each bite of pulled pork is moist and delicious.
Serving
Once the pulled pork is ready, it’s time to enjoy this mouthwatering dish:
Serve on Buns or Rolls
Serve the pulled pork on your favorite buns or rolls. The soft texture of the bread will complement the tender and juicy pork perfectly.
Optional: Toast the Buns
For added crunch and flavor, consider toasting the buns. Simply place them in the oven for a few minutes until they are warm and slightly crispy.
Top with Coleslaw or Pickles
For extra freshness and a bit of tanginess, top your pulled pork with coleslaw or pickles. These additions add a delightful contrast to the rich and savory meat.
Enjoy!
Sit back, relax, and savor every bite of your homemade pulled pork. The combination of succulent meat, flavorful sauce, and the perfect bun will surely leave you satisfied.
Variations
Get creative and try different variations of pulled pork to suit your taste preferences:
Spicy Pulled Pork
If you like some heat, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the sauce mixture. This will give your pulled pork an extra kick that will please spicy food lovers.
Sweet Pulled Pork
To achieve a sweeter flavor, increase the amount of brown sugar in the recipe. You can also add honey for an additional touch of sweetness.
Asian-Inspired Pulled Pork
For an Asian twist, substitute the barbecue sauce with soy sauce, add ginger, and include hoisin sauce. These ingredients will infuse the pulled pork with a delicious blend of flavors.
Mexican Pulled Pork
Give your pulled pork a smoky Mexican twist by adding cumin, oregano, and chipotle to the seasoning. This variation will transport your taste buds south of the border.
Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure you make the best pulled pork possible:
Let the Pressure Release Naturally
Allowing the pressure to release naturally after cooking results in more tender meat. This step helps the pork retain its moisture and ensures it doesn’t become dry.
Broil for a Caramelized Crust
For a caramelized crust on your pulled pork, transfer the shredded meat to a baking sheet and broil it in the oven for a few minutes. This will give the dish a delightful texture and added depth of flavor.
Adjust Seasoning to Taste
Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your personal taste preferences. Add more spices if you prefer a stronger flavor or reduce the amount if you prefer a milder taste.
Store Leftovers Properly
Any leftover pulled pork can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This makes it a great option for meal prepping or enjoying leftovers throughout the week.
Freeze for Future Use
If you want to save extra pulled pork for later, simply freeze it in an airtight container or freezer bags. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw and reheat the pork before serving.
Conclusion
Cooking pulled pork in a pressure cooker is a quick and convenient way to enjoy this classic dish. By following these simple steps and using the right equipment, you can create tender and flavorful pulled pork in no time. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and seasonings to make the dish your own. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue or enjoying it on a cozy night in, pulled pork is always a crowd-pleaser. So gather your family and friends, and enjoy the delicious results of your homemade pulled pork feast.