Best Pulled Pork Recipe – How to Make Pulled Pork In The Oven
Introduction:
Pulled pork is a mouthwatering dish loved by many for its tender, flavorful meat that easily falls apart. Traditionally, it’s prepared using a smoker or slow cooker, but did you know you can make incredible pulled pork right in your oven? If you’re craving this delicious meal but don’t have access to special equipment, then look no further. We’ve got the perfect oven-baked pulled pork recipe for you!
Ingredients:
– 4-5 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– ½ cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Buns, coleslaw, and pickles (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, salt, black pepper, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well to create your dry rub.
3. Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels and then generously apply the dry rub all over the meat. Make sure to massage the spices into every nook and cranny.
4. Place the seasoned pork shoulder in a roasting pan or oven-safe dish with a lid. Pour the apple cider vinegar around the meat (not directly on it). Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil before placing a lid on top.
5. Transfer your covered roasting pan to the preheated oven and cook for approximately six hours or until the internal temperature reaches at least 190°F (88°C). You’ll know it’s ready when the meat is easily shreddable with a fork.
6. Remove the tender pork from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes, still covered, to preserve its moisture and tenderness.
7. Shred the meat using two forks or your fingers – it should come apart very easily. After shredding, dispose of any large pockets of fat.
8. If you’d like to remove excess grease, use a spoon or ladle to collect it from your roasting pan.
9. Next, mix in your favorite barbecue sauce with the shredded pork until well-coated. If desired, you can return it to the oven for 15-20 minutes to caramelize the sauce onto the meat.
10. Serve your mouthwatering pulled pork on fresh buns with coleslaw and pickles on the side or atop your sandwich as per your preference.
Conclusion:
And there you have it – a simple, delicious oven-baked pulled pork recipe that will undoubtedly impress family and friends alike. It’s perfect for weekend get-togethers, tailgating parties, or cozy family dinners at home where you want to showcase this amazing dish without needing a smoker or slow cooker!